Police have expressed disappointment after three liquor stores in suburban Auckland were found selling alcohol to minors during a joint compliance operation conducted over the past three weeks.
A total of 36 licensed premises were tested, and three failed to meet their legal obligations.
“We’re really disappointed to report below 100% compliance, in that three out of the thirty-six sites tested failed in their obligations,” said Sergeant Michael Haydon, as quoted by Stuff.
He emphasised that the responsibility on alcohol retailers is straightforward.
“A very basic requirement for anyone selling alcohol is to ask for ID and then calculate the correct age from that identification,” Stuff has reported.
The three non-compliant stores will now be referred to the Alcohol Regulatory and Licensing Authority for further action.
Haydon said such failures were unacceptable.
“It’s a privilege, and not a right, for licensees and duty managers to be granted the ability to sell alcohol,” he said.
“Three sales to a minor are three too many,” as quoted by Stuff.
Despite the breaches, police acknowledged that the remaining 33 stores passed the checks and complied with the law.
Controlled Purchase Operations are routinely carried out by police in partnership with councils and health agencies to reduce alcohol-related harm nationwide, Stuff has reported.
Police encouraged the public to report any concerns about alcohol being sold to minors through 105.police.govt.nz or by calling 105. Anonymous information can also be shared with Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
ISSUE
Leave a Comment