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Johannesburg — the South African law enforcement authorities (SAPS, Johannesburg Metropolitan Police, JMPD) have adopted a firm, uncompromising stance to curb lawlessness during New Year’s Eve celebrations.
As part of the move, all liquor outlets and mass gathering venues across the metro have been ordered to close by 6pm., a decisive measure aimed at maintaining public order.
Mgcini Tshwaku, the City of Joburg MMC for Public Safety, said the strategy, initially implemented last year in high-risk areas like the city center, Hillbrow, and Yeoville, has been extended citywide. “This move by the SAPS aims to reduce alcohol-related incidents and promote public safety. Past experiences and statistics (notably during Covid-19) show that restricting liquor trading hours can help minimise alcohol-related harms,” reads a statement issued by the Johannesburg Public Safety office.
Various law enforcement agencies have been mobilised to enforce compliance. A stern reminder was also issued against unauthorised street parties and urged the public to cooperate fully with law enforcement authorities to avoid arrest.
The statement further reads: “Johannesburg Metropolitan Police, the SAPS and other stakeholders like the EMS and health environment will conduct a joint operation in all
liquor outlets affected by these trading hours. Those found contravening the conditions of
the Liquor Act such as allowing intoxicated people, underage, and over-crowding inside
liquor premises will have to face the risk of their stock being confiscated and necessary
fines imposed on their businesses.”
Provincial police commissioner, Tommy Mthombeni, echoed this no-tolerance approach, pledging robust enforcement across Gauteng’s roads, public spaces, and residential areas. He identified crime hotspots, particularly Hillbrow, notorious for violent incidents like throwing objects from multi-story buildings, a long-standing tradition which form part of the New Year Eve’s festivities.
The Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) also addressed the illegal use of fireworks, reminding residents that fireworks are permitted only between 11 pm and 1am on New Year’s Eve and strictly prohibited in public spaces such as schools, hospitals, and areas within 500 meters of fuel stations or explosives factories. JMPD will actively monitor compliance, with violators facing fines of up to R1,500.
Meanwhile, in Mpumalanga, police will be watching Anderson Street in Mbombela, Barberton, Sappi, Sun City in KwaMhlanga, a popular spot called KaMabuza in Tonga as well as KaNyamazane, according to a report by Media24.
