SOLWEZI BARS AND NIGHTCLUBS WARNED

SOLWEZI Municipal Council says it has noted with concern how some bar and nightclub owners, in spite of several engagements, have continued to operate their businesses in contravention of provisions of the Liquor Licensing Act No. 20 of 2011.

Director Public Health Felix Buleke disclosed that the local authority will soon commence an audit of bars and night clubs that have relaxed compliance by operating outside permitted hours and entertaining noise pollution thus promoting lawlessness.

Mr Buleke stated that the Council does not find pleasure in closing down businesses that are a source of livelihood for many however, the Local Authority has received numerous complaints from community members on noise pollution.

"And arising from that, we will not hesitate but to close businesses that are not compliant to the law,"

"And arising from that, we will not hesitate but to close businesses that are not compliant to the law," said Mr Buleke. He indicated that the Council is in receipt of community signed petitions against the vice of noise pollution and has commenced investigations into the complaints and will soon embark on enforcements to ensure adherence to provisions of the law.

He said it has been observed that some houses and kiosks are operating as bars with no licenses and proper facilities for their patrons adding that the act is illegal and perpetrators are liable to a fine or imprisonment, or both.

He pointed out that it is imperative that all bar and night club owners are compliant to laid down regulations to avoid finding themselves on the wrong side of the law.

He also called on the need for bar and night club owners to desist from placing sound speakers outside their premises as this contributes to noise pollution.