Eastern Cape police are investigating the alleged supply of alcohol to minors after a disturbing video circulated on social media showing young children drinking alcohol on Christmas Day.
In the video, which began trending online over the weekend, children believed to be between the ages of eight and 12 are seen holding bottles and sipping what appears to be alcohol in the presence of adults.
One child is heard questioning why they should not be drinking, saying it is Christmas.
Opened criminal case
Ngqamakhwe police have since opened a criminal case following the public outcry sparked by the footage.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana confirmed that the incident was traced to a household in the Khothane Administrative Area, Santini Location, Ngqamakhwe.
“The incident allegedly involved five children, with the eldest aged 12, two aged 11 and two aged eight,” Gantana said.
She added that a case docket has been registered for contravention of the National Liquor Act (Act 59 of 2003), which prohibits supplying or making alcohol available to minors.
“This is a serious offence under South African law,” Gantana said.
No arrests
No arrests have been made at this stage, but police say investigations are ongoing.
“Once the investigation is complete, the case docket will be submitted to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for a decision on the way forward,” she said.
Police have warned that they view the matter in a very serious light.
“The National Liquor Act exists to protect the wellbeing of children, and any person found to be facilitating underage drinking will face the full might of the law,” Gantana said.
She also urged parents, guardians and community members to act responsibly and prioritise the safety and welfare of children at all times.
Eastern Cape Social Development MEC Bukiwe Fanta has also condemned the incident, describing it as unacceptable and a failure by adults to protect vulnerable children.
