Mkushi Town Council has shut down 12 bars for operating outside stipulated laws.

According to a statement issued to ZANIS by Council Assistant Public Relations Officer, Mwenya Mulenga, the 12 bars were closed down during an operation in Itala Compound to check compliance levels as provided by law under the Liquor Licensing Act number 20 of 2011.

“During the inspection, the local authority discovered serious violations by bar owners that included operating without proper sanitation facilities such as toilets and operating without liquor trading licenses,” she said.

Ms Mulenga expressed concern that this may result in the escalation of cholera, among other waterborne diseases in the district.

She hoped the closure of the 12 bars will serve as a deterrent measure to other business entities to put their house in order by formalizing their business with the council.

Ms Mulenga noted that the council will continue to carry out random operations in its quest to restore sanity in the district.

Ms Mulenga warned bar owners in the district to operate within the confines of the law, as erring businesses shall be brought to book.

She reaffirmed Mkushi Town Council’s commitment to ensuring a clean, safe, and healthy environment for all residents, as well as people in transit.