The alcohol ban in South Africa has divided the country since it was instituted at the start of the national lockdown.

Some organisations have argued that reopening sales will boost the economy, and help small businesses like shebeens, while Karen on Facebook doesn’t understand why she can’t buy her Woolies Chardonnay “when it’s already in the shop”.

Government has defended the ban by maintaining that alcohol impairs judgement which could lead to poor life choices, making it harder for authorities to police physical distancing.

And no, alert level 4 will not see the ban lifted, so settle in for sobriety, or drone drops from the neighbours, until we reach alert level 3.

Meanwhile, in the Free State, criminals are taking things into their own hands.

Here’s TimesLIVE:

Thieves have made off with alcohol worth more than R60,000 from a Spar Tops in Botshabelo, Free State, police said.

In a video shared on social media, a group of robbers in balaclavas can be seen breaking into the store through a security gate. The group jumps over the counter and starts filling their bags. They make one last trip down the aisles with racks of alcohol before fleeing.

It’s like KTV’s Reggie’s Rush, except with booze and criminals:

At least they’re wearing masks, although I’m not sure that has much to do with trying to curb the spread of COVID-19.

That security door didn’t stand a chance.

According to police spokesperson Brig Motantsi Makhele, the owner said that he conducted an inspection at the store on April 24 to ensure it was properly locked.

Makhele said he reported back at the store on Monday and noticed that the main glass door was damaged. This is where the thieves gained access.

A case of burglary has been opened, but so far no arrests have been made.

[source:timeslive]