Police have shut down several illegal alcohol sellers in rural Efate after finding they were operating without the required licences.

The issue was raised during the Community Policing “Farea” Program, where residents also raised concerns about alcohol-related noise and disturbances in communities.

Crime Prevention Liaison Officer for Shefa Province, Sergeant Roger Charlie, said police recently confiscated alcohol from one unlicensed operator and handed the items over to provincial licensing officers.

“Before last week we had one case where we confiscated drinks from a shop and placed them in the custody of licensing officers. The owner will have to pay a fine before any property is returned,” Sergeant Charlie said.

He said all businesses selling alcohol must hold a valid licence and warned that some people continue to sell alcohol illegally from homes and community shops.

“There are different types of licences available, including occasional licences for people who wish to sell alcohol for a short period, but operators must still follow the law,” he said.

Long-time liquor store owner Grace Andrew said licensed businesses are disadvantaged when others sell alcohol without meeting the same requirements.

“I follow the approved trading hours, but it is not fair when others are selling alcohol secretly without licences,” she said.

Andrew also called on community leaders to help identify locations where illegal alcohol sales and alcohol-related disturbances continue to occur.

North West Efate Area Administrator Sylvie Watt said the issue has been ongoing for some time and has affected local council operations.

She reminded business owners that obtaining the proper licence is a requirement for anyone wishing to sell alcohol legally.