Vusumuzi Dube
Some Bulawayo residents have raised concern over the proliferation of shebeens in residential areas and urged the authorities to urgently deal with the issue before it gets out of control.
Residents in areas such as Burnside, Joshua Mqabuko Heights, Magwegwe North, Luveve have complained of unregulated sale of alcohol in their areas.
In Mqabuko Heights, unemployed youths are exploiting vacant properties to set up makeshift shebeens to sell alcohol.
Residents have expressed concerns that these sites are becoming hotspots for criminal activities, with housebreakers using the shebeens as a cover to conduct surveillance on potential targets.
During a visit to some of the sites, a New Ziana crew observed illegal taxis (mushikashika) parked outside while youths consumed toxic brews and smoked drugs.
Local residents expressed fears for their safety, noting that some intoxicated individuals at the shebeens often harass them as they go about their daily activities.
Owners of licensed alcohol outlets interviewed said the beer sold at some of the shebeens is smuggled from South Africa and offered at prices lower than those of locally manufactured brands.
The smuggled beer, commonly referred to as “Dollar Deals,” has gained significant popularity in the city suburbs. Speaking during a recent council meeting, Bulawayo mayor David Coltart stressed the importance of addressing the unregulated sale of alcohol in residential areas.
“I am concerned about the unauthorised sale of alcohol throughout the city. Some residents are establishing shebeens in their homes,” he said. “Council needs to take measures to combat these pop-up shebeens.
Also, the council, through the corporate communications office, should communicate on the various platforms available for residents to report such cases.”
Town Planning director Wisdom Siziba, highlighted the need for proper zoning and enforcement to manage the growth of bottle stores and eliminate illegal liquor outlets. “The department will compile a list of individuals in violation of the regulations and report them to the Liquor Licensing Board.
“Council is moving towards zoning the Central Business District, which will help reduce the number of bottle stores in the city.
“While the police are responsible for controlling shebeens, it is the council’s duty to identify them. Enforcement and prohibition orders will be issued to these illegal liquor dealers once they are identified,” he said. –New Ziana
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