COUNCILLORS in Bulawayo have called on the Liquor Licensing Board to revoke licences for non-compliant bottle stores and bars, particularly those operating in residential areas.
In an interview yesterday, ward 28 councillor Ntandoyenkosi Ndlovu said the liquor board should revoke the licences of non-compliant bottle stores and bars to protect the lives of residents.
“We have noted that some bottle stores and bars are non-compliant, hence delaying closing their businesses, leading to most thieves hiding in such places, then later attacking people leading to loss of lives,” he said.
Ndlovu said the problem they faces with such places was the prevalence of illegal activities which harm citizens.
“We urge the law enforcement authorities to uphold the law and act swiftly against bottle stores and bars operating beyond stipulated business hours.
“We urge the liquor board to revoke licences for bottle stores and bars failing to follow regulations in residential areas," he added.
Ward 17 councillor Sikhulekile Moyo said most bottle stores, bars and nightclubs failing to comply should have their licences revoked.
“We urge to business community to abide by business regulations so that we can develop a city free from drug and substance abuse. Most bottle stores and bars failing to comply are exposing young people to drugs hence limiting their chances of have a bright future,” Moyo said.
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Ward 10 councillor Khalazani Ndlovu said bottle stores in high-density areas were operating until late resulting in an increase in the crime rate.
“We have health issues as some vendors are now cooking on the pavements of bottle stores which are not inspected by the City Health Department and there are no toilets, hence people are relieving themselves in open spaces leading to health hazards in our city,” he said.
The issue was raised by councillor Moyo during a council meeting, who said some bottle stores had been turned into bars and sports bars were being ran like night clubs in residential areas.
