Shebeen bites the dust
2007-02-15
A ZERO tolerance policy is now in operation against illegal shebeen owners in Paarl East, especially those that fail to comply with the liquor act.
Last week, in a landmark action, a property was auctioned in the Groenheuwel area, after the police had been battling with the owner for years over illegal activities occurring on the property, stemming from the illegal sale of alcohol.
Klein Bongi’s in Barbara Close was forfeited to the state after application to the asset forfeiture unit of the National Prosecution Authority by the police of Paarl East police station.
This shebeen has been a hot-spot for crime such as murder, rape and drug abuse. When the establishment continued its illegal activities despite numerous raids throughout the years, the police deemed it necessary to approach the government for help.
After further investigation by the NPA an interdict was served by the State to seize the property and have it lawfully auctioned.
The owner of Klein Bongi’s, Daniel Leholo, put in an application to oppose the seizure, but never submitted the necessary documents to state his case.
The property was bought by local businessman, Wilfred Heswick, for R14 000, but he now has the daunting task of removing the illegal residents occupying the premises.
A spokesperson for the police said that the sale had ensured one less headache for the Paarl East police.
“This has been a ground-breaking procedure for us, and it is just the first of many more to come.
“We are committed to wiping out all illegal activities in the area.”
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