Solwezi council shuts down 14 bars

By JACKSON MAPAPAYI

SOLWEZI Municipal Council (SMC) has closed down 14 bars and taverns for failing to meet minimum health requirements in line with the provisions of the Liquor Licensing Act.

Officers from the municipality’s health department swung into action and closed down the erring bars and taverns in a swoop.

SMC public relations officer, Esther Chirwa said out of the 14 bars, eight had opened for business before 10:00 hours, which is the stipulated time for opening.

Ms Chirwa also said most of the bars were found operating without requisite documents such as Health Inspection Certificate, Business Levy, Fire Certificate and the Liquor Trading Licence, among others.

“I can confirm that about 14 bars have been closed down in the mentioned townships for not meeting the requirements in line with the Liquor Licensing Act,” Ms Chirwa said.

She advised bar owners and the general public that it is illegal for one to operate a business without the required trading licences.

She warned that it was an offence for anyone to operate a business without displaying licences for health inspectors and members of the public to see.