EAST LONDON- As the exam season draws to a close, the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality(BCMM) has sounded a warning to pupils, parents and guardians about the dangers of pens down parties.
In a statement issued by BCMM on 15th November 2024, the Metro warned that these parties which often involve underage drinking and large gatherings of unsupervised teenagers, will not be tolerated.
The warning comes in the wake of the Enyobeni tragedy, which highlighted the devastating consequences of underage drinking and large gatherings of unsupervised teenagers.
BCMM spokesperson Samkelo Ngwenya said, “We urge parents and guardians to be vigilant and actively involved in preventing their children from participating in these parties. The Metro has also called on various stakeholders including liquor outlets, taxis and adults who buy alcohol on behalf of children to refrain from facilitating these parties. To curb the problem, Metro has been conducting multi-stakeholder operations, including beachfront patrols, liquor outlet inspections and drunk driving operations.”
Furthermore, the municipality has also commended the awareness campaigns conducted by various stakeholders, led by the Eastern Cape Liquor Board.
“We believe that these collaborative efforts will go a long way in saving lives and preventing the devastating consequences of underage drinking,” said Ngwenya.
This warning has been supported by various partners, including the Border Kei Chamber of Business, Tidy Towns, Quigney Rate Payers Association, private security companies, community policing forums and responsible citizens who care about the city and respect its by-laws.
As the exam season comes to a close, the Metro is urging learners to take responsibility for their lives and actions.
“The consequences of underage drinking can be life-threatening and have permanent scars,” said Ngwenya.
By working together, Metro believes that the community can prevent the devastating consequences of underage drinking and ensure that learners have a safe and successful future.
photograph: supplied
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