We are glad to report the success of the helpline in reaction to a police raid on an unlicensed shebeen in the Worcester district. Although the shebeen owner had not paid his membership fee, the local operator had handed him a membership card with a membership number, and although LLS was not strictly obliged to assist him, we did.

Our support team was available when the call was made. We ensured that the police did not remove any equipment (pool tables, juke boxes). Although the police refused to speak to us (always a 50/50 situation) we were able to obtain the name and details of the police officers involved.

We supported the shebeen owner by assuring him of our assistance as well as that we would seek legal representation on an urgent basis. An Attorney was appointed. The member appeared in court and was set free without bail being required. The case was postponed to 27 March 2009.

In this case there was a direct benefit for the operator, as well as for the member. The member’s membership fee has since been paid by the operator.

We will further report on this matter in our April newsletter.