Gauteng Shuts Down 20 Taverns in Anti-Violence Crackdown
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has announced the shutdown of 20 liquor outlets following 7,322 inspections as part of a province-wide crackdown on alcohol-related violence, alongside plans to deploy 1,022 response teams across 122 high-risk areas.
Speaking at a briefing on the province’s anti-violence strategy, Lesufi said the closures were part of a broader effort to address the link between unlicensed liquor outlets and violent crime, particularly gender-based violence and femicide.
DOBSONVILLE FLAGGED FOR HIGH RAPE CASES
Ten police stations with the highest reported rape cases will receive special attention, including Dobsonville in Soweto.
The province plans to hire 56 additional social workers to help victims of violence, strengthening the support system for survivors.
“We cannot continue to talk about violence against women and children without addressing the environments that enable it,” Lesufi said. “Unlicensed taverns operating next to schools, near places of worship and in residential areas are a danger to our communities”.
1,022 RESPONSE TEAMS DEPLOYED
The deployment of 1,022 response teams across 122 high-risk areas represents a significant escalation in the province’s efforts to tackle crime and violence at community level.
The teams will focus on:
- Visible policing in hotspots
- Responding to GBVF incidents
- Enforcing liquor licensing laws
- Working with community policing forums
Lesufi said the initiative would be coordinated with SAPS, JMPD, and community structures to ensure a comprehensive approach.
A RECORD OF VIOLENCE
The crackdown comes as Gauteng continues to grapple with a femicide crisis that has seen at least 12 women killed in Ekurhuleni since July, and the discovery of multiple bodies in Soweto and surrounding areas.
The province has also faced criticism for failing to address the root causes of violence, including substance abuse, unemployment, and inadequate policing resources.
“Shutting down taverns is one thing. But what about the men who beat their wives and girlfriends? What about the police who don’t respond when women report abuse?” asked a Soweto community activist who asked not to be named. “We need a holistic approach, not just raids”.
ELECTIONS LOOM
The crackdown comes just two days before the local government elections, where crime and violence are expected to be key voter concerns.
The ANC-led provincial government has sought to position itself as tough on crime ahead of the polls, while opposition parties have accused it of failing to deliver on previous promises.
Residents in Dobsonville and other affected areas will be watching closely to see whether the crackdown produces tangible results or whether it is simply an election-season gesture.
