GEORGE - George Municipality took firm action yesterday, 16 December, to ensure order and safety on its beaches, cracking down on alcohol consumption. Law enforcement and beach monitors confiscated alcohol, removing intoxicated individuals to restore a tranquil beach atmosphere.
One person was also arrested for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol.
In a media release the municipality said it is deeply concerned about numerous attempts to bring in alcohol, including hiding bottles in unconventional places like baby nappies, in-between meat, and the sand.
"Our officers, authorized by municipal by-laws, will continue rigorous searches of cars and beachgoers. This confirms our commitment to strictly enforcing the NO ALCOHOL policy on beaches, ensuring a safe environment for all visitors. The municipality will continue to act decisively against the use of alcohol on its beaches and issue a stern warning that it will not tolerate alcohol consumption in these public spaces," reads the statement.
The control and searching of vehicles and bag access at municipal beaches are implemented under "The Access to Public Premises and Access of Vehicles Act (53 1985)". The public is cautioned that prohibited substances, weapons, alcohol, fireworks, etc., will be confiscated, and fines can be issued.
Beachgoers use creative methods to hide the alcohol they try to sneak in.
All confiscated items or goods will be handed over to the South African Police Service for disposal.
Neighbourhood watches, Community Police Forums (CPFs), George and Provincial Traffic Services, SANParks, National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), private security companies, the police, including business owners, also assist the municipality in ensuring a safe festive season.
George Municipality encourages beachgoers to cooperate with officials to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Beach areas under the control of George Municipality include Wilderness main beach, Wilderness Lagoon, Wilderness Steps, Wilderness Leentjiesklip, Victoria Bay Beach, Gwaing River Mouth beach and day camp, and Herold’s Bay beach and tidal pool.
For complaints and further information, please contact the Law Enforcement office at 044 801 6350 (07:45 - 16:30) or 044 801 6300 (after-hours assistance for bylaw-related offences and emergencies).
The public can also send e-mails to sprins@george.gov.za with complaints or related matters. Law Enforcement Office is located at 25B Cathedral Street.
The municipality will continue to act decisively against the use of alcohol on its beaches.‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’
