Alcohol estimated at R150 000.00 seized and two arrested

NORTHERN CAPE – On Monday evening 27 July 2020 at about 21:15, SAPS members of the ZFM District COVID 19 team were busy with patrols in front of the Dr. Harry Surtie Hospital in Upington when they noticed what appeared to be a white Isuzu courier van driving over the bridge leading to Paballelo and Dakota Weg locations.

Seeing that it was already past the curfew time, they pursued the vehicle to inquiry about their reason for traveling this late. They managed to pull the vehicle off and upon investigation, they discovered dozens of boxes filled with liquor in the back of the van. Two males were arrested and charged for Contravention of the National Disaster Management Act Regulations that is the transportation of liquor and failure to confine themselves to their residents during the curfew time. Both the alcohol amounting to 354 600ml and the Isuzu van was confiscated and booked in.

Today the duo made their first appearance in the Upington Magistrate Court and were released on bail. The case was postponed for further investigation.

The Provincial Commissioner of the Northern Cape, Lieutenant General Risimati Peter Shivuri applauded the members for their alertness and responsive action. “The police are ready to do its bit to flatten the curve of the spread of the virus by ensuring compliance with the Disaster Management Act Regulations.”

Further investigation into the case continues.