The one province in South Africa that wants to bring back alcohol restrictions for December

Limpopo may soon become the first province in South Africa to reintroduce an alcohol curfew, a measure reminiscent of those implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The proposal, spearheaded by the South African Police Service (SAPS), aims to tackle alarming crime statistics during the festive season, a time historically associated with spikes in alcohol-related incidents.

Deputy Provincial Police Commissioner Major General Jan Scheepers proposed the plan during a recent stakeholders’ engagement session on liquor affairs.

Drawing parallels to the temporary curfew imposed last year, Scheepers emphasised its success in reducing crime and saving lives.

The previous restrictions required alcohol outlets to close earlier, a measure that, while effective, was eventually overturned by the High Court.

The proposed curfew would limit liquor outlet closing times to midnight (24h00), a significant change from the current allowances of 02h00 or even 04h00.

Scheepers explained that the intent is not to restrict alcohol consumption entirely but to mitigate the harmful behaviours often linked to late-night drinking.

He emphasised that alcohol itself is not the issue; rather, the problem lies in how it is consumed and the behaviours it enables, particularly when combined with insufficient safeguards at liquor-serving establishments.

The festive season is a time of celebration, but it is also marked by a sharp rise in road fatalities and violent crime, many of which are tied to alcohol misuse.

According to recent road safety statistics, December remains one of the deadliest months on South African roads.

In 2023, Limpopo recorded a substantial increase in traffic accidents, with drunk driving cited as a major contributing factor.

Scheepers believes that stricter regulations on alcohol trading hours could significantly reduce these incidents, curbing both impaired driving and alcohol-fueled violence.

Under curfew, there would be stricter controls on when alcohol can be sold, requiring bars, clubs, and liquor stores to cease operations by midnight.

This adjustment, similar to the Covid-era alcohol bans, aims to reduce the availability of alcohol during peak hours of crime and reckless behaviour.

Stricter noise regulations are also part of the proposal, designed to promote safer and quieter community environments during the holidays.

While some stakeholders have raised concerns about the potential economic impact on the alcohol industry, Major General Scheepers reassured businesses that the intent is not to stifle economic activity but to strike a balance between public safety and commercial interests.

He called on liquor outlet owners to collaborate in fostering a culture of responsible drinking and ensuring their establishments adhere to the proposed guidelines.

The relationship between alcohol and crime remains a pressing concern.

Scheepers highlighted that many crimes, including gender-based violence, are often linked to excessive drinking.

The SAPS is advocating for community involvement in promoting responsible consumption and supporting victims of alcohol-related crimes.

This includes encouraging families and communities to play a more active role in preventing excessive drinking and its consequences.

Enforcement will be a critical component of the curfew’s success.

Scheepers assured the public that law enforcement agencies are prepared to monitor compliance rigorously.

Violators can expect swift and decisive action to ensure the proposed measures achieve their intended outcomes.

He emphasised the goal of creating a safer environment for all residents and visitors during the festive season.

As Limpopo deliberates on reintroducing a curfew, the conversation underscores a larger national debate about the balance between personal freedoms, economic considerations, and public safety.

Whether the proposal is adopted or not, the initiative highlights the urgent need to address the destructive consequences of irresponsible alcohol consumption, particularly during the high-risk festive season.

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