Police management in the Northern Cape has noticed with great concern that certain businesses are not complying with the operating hours.
THE POLICE have warned local businesses that they will be fined if they fail to adhere to operating times and the nightly curfew between 10pm and 4am under the adjusted Level 3 lockdown regulations.
Northern Cape police spokesperson Captain Olebogeng Tawana said on Tuesday that only persons performing essential duties and who are in possession of the necessary documents are allowed on the streets during the stipulated curfew hours.
“Police management in the Province has noticed with great concern that certain businesses are not complying with the operating hours,” said Tawana. “Failure to comply will result in fines being issued.
“All non-essential establishments must be closed by 9pm to allow employees and patrons to be at their place of residence to avoid the contravention of the curfew regulations.
“Members of business forums and business fraternities, including formal and informal business, as well as all citizens, are expected to adhere to the lockdown regulations. The law will be vigorously enforced in this regard, therefore business owners are cautioned, in the strongest terms, not to flout the regulations.”
Tawana also warned that in some instances criminals were robbing businesses that were open during the curfew.
He added that the police would continue to monitor the on-site and off-site sale of alcohol.
“The sale of liquor during weekends and public holidays is strictly prohibited. Alcohol can be purchased from Monday until Thursday between 10am until 6pm. Taverns and bottle store owners are being monitored for the illegal dealing or sale of liquor outside the stipulated days. The police will vigorously enforce the lockdown regulations.”
