Underage drinking crisis – Police say they are investigating viral video

TAKUDZWA HILLARY CHIWANZA

HARARE – Police said they have taken cognizance of a video circulating on social media in which some juveniles are seen abusing alcohol in the city, adding that investigations are now in progress.

Image: UnlockFood.ca

Writing on X, (formerly Twitter), police said that, “The ZRP has taken note of a viral social media video, especially on Whatsapp platforms where minors (young boys) are openly seen drinking beer in a public place in Harare CBD.

“Investigations are now underway with a view of identifying the place, the young boys, their parents and the person who might have facilitated the acquisition of the alcohol by the minors.”

National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed to state media that they were aware of the video and reports that some youths were abusing alcohol.

“We are aware of the video being circulated and for now investigations are in progress. We will update you on any developments soon,” he said.

Screengrab showing the juveniles abusing alcohol. 

In light of the viral video, social commentators have warned that if left unaddressed, the problem of underage drinking in Zimbabwe will go out of hand and the country risks losing its bright young minds to alcohol abuse.

“If the Government and families do not act on the easy access and abuse of alcohol by minors in this country we have a huge crisis looming. What I witnessed in my rural areas shocked me. Young kids roaming around drinking beer,” said media entrepreneur Plot Mhako.

In Zimbabwe, the sale of liquor, including beer, is regulated by the Liquor Act, which, among other things, strictly prohibits the selling of beer to children. The legal drinking age is 18.