Mbare Shebeen Operator Arrested For Supplying Alcohol to Minors
By Staff Reporter
In a swift response to a viral video depicting minors consuming alcohol in Harare Central Business District, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has arrested a twenty-three-year-old Mbare for supplying liquor to the minors.
National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi announced the arrest of Phaeteon Mutiyaya.
“Reference is made to the Zimbabwe Republic Police’s press statement released on 27″ December 2023 on social media videos which went viral on 26 December 2023 showing minors drinking alcohol in Harare Central Business District. The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of Phaeteon Mutiyaya (23) for supplying liquor to the minors. The suspect operates a shebeen at Block 2C10, Nenyere Flats, Mbare, Harare,” said Assistant Commissioner Nyathi
The arrest led to the recovery of an extensive assortment of alcoholic beverages, including 16 x 1.25 litres Super Chibuku, 38 x 200ml Two Keys Whisky, 25 x 200ml Gin, and various other spirits and wines.
According to Assistant Commissioner Nyathi, the Police have also identified nine other minors who were in the company of the two minors from Epworth seen in the viral video.
“Meanwhile, the Police has identified the other nine minors who were in company of the two minors from Epworth, Harare. The minors are aged 5, 7 (three), 9, 10 (three) and 11. They all reside at Nenyere Flats, Mbare with their parents and guardians who have since been located by the Police.
“Investigations by the Police have established that the minors used money given to them as Christmas presents to buy alcohol. The minors travelled from Mbare to Harare Central Business District and linked up with the two minors from Epworth.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police warns liquor outlet operators against supplying or selling liquor to persons under the age of 18. The Police will arrest violators of Liquor Act without fear or favour. Operators of shebeens or illegal liquor outlets will face the full wrath of the law,” said Assistant Commissioner Nyathi
