By Correspondent
The City of Harare has begun a campaign against bottle stores that operate beyond their stipulated times.
Bottle stores are not allowed to operate after 8:00.
On Thursday evening the local authority launched the program with 12 bottle stores in the CBD fined US$300.
Authorities said the initiative is a response to concerns also raised by residents.
City Corporate Communications Manager Stanley Gama said the campaign is continuing.
“We will not tolerate lawlessness- bottle store owners must respect both the country’s laws and the City by-laws.
“They are slowly turning the city centre into a jungle and we will not allow that to happen.
“We issued them with tickets for opening beyond their 8pm time.
Gama said they will now move to revoke their business licences if they don’t comply fully with the laws.
“All I can say for now is that their honeymoon is over.
“Some of them we are investigating how they were issued with their trading licenses.
“We have listened to residents’ complaints about the proliferation of bottle stores in the city, some operating illegally and we will stop this,” he said.
New Rules
In 2023 Government announced a new set of strict rules.
These prevent alcohol traders whose establishments have a history of complaints from the public, a record of police fines or inadequate hygiene standards from having their operating licences renewed the following year.
The new regulations, are part of Government’s broader efforts to fight drug and substance abuse.
They also seek to address public safety concerns and curb the proliferation of illegal alcohol outlets.
Liquor Licensing Board (LLB) also revealed that night clubs without soundproofing, air conditioning or insurance will not be licensed to operate.
