Kawambwa bar owners warned against under age patrons

Kawambwa Town Council has issued a final warning to bar and nightclub owners against admitting persons under the age of 18 into their premises. Council Secretary, George Biemba emphasised that allowing underage patrons into bars and nightclubs is prohibited under the Liquor…

Kawambwa Town Council has issued a final warning to bar and nightclub owners against admitting persons under the age of 18 into their premises.

Council Secretary, George Biemba emphasised that allowing underage patrons into bars and nightclubs is prohibited under the Liquor Licensing Act No. 20 of 2011.

Mr Biemba noted that despite an earlier warning issued in February this year, some establishments in the district have continued to entertain minors.

“We are reminding all licensed premises that the law forbids admitting persons below 18 years, selling or supplying them with liquor, or permitting them to consume alcohol on the premises. This is a final warning and all should comply,” MrBiemba said.

Mr Biemba said bar and nightclub owners found violating the law risk facing fines, prosecution, and closure of their businesses.

He urged all operators to strictly comply with the law, stressing that the stated penalties will be enforced without further delay by the local authority.

The Council has since called on liquor-licensed premises to cooperate with the local authority and ensure that underage persons are not allowed to access or consume alcohol.

The warning by the local authority comes in the wake of a surge in the number of underage persons patronizing bars and nightclubs in the district.