POLICE in south Belfast have seized a substantial quantity of alcohol, following a search of commercial premises on the Ormeau Road under the licensing order yesterday afternoon, Wednesday, March 17.

The seizure was made aAfter a number of concerns were raised around the potential illegal sale of alcohol in the area, the PSNI say.

Chief Inspector Gavin Kirkpatrick explained, “Our licensing officer working alongside our City Centre Neighbourhood Policing team obtained a warrant and carried out the search, locating 176 cases of beer, 50 cases of wine, 141 bottles of spirits, 72 litres of cider and 76 bottles of alcopops, which we suspect were being sold locally illegally.

“While our investigation into this matter is ongoing, one male was cautioned for the offence of selling intoxicating liquor without a licence.

“Police regularly respond incidents involving noisy parties, drinking in public spaces and anti-social behaviour, and often seize alcohol from young people who are under 18 years of age, who are clearly obtaining alcohol illegally.

“It is disappointing that while many within our local hospitality sector continue to make significant sacrifices, either remaining closed or operating professionally within the current health regulations, others seem to think they are exempt from the restrictions and licensing legislation.

“I would appeal to anyone with information regarding the illegal sale of alcohol to contact us directly on 101, or submit a report online using our non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/.  

“You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/ “