"Successful controlled purchase operation in Palmerston North"

Police are happy to report that the latest controlled purchase operation in Palmerston North and Feilding areas were a success with only one outlet selling to a minor.

On Saturday 28 May 2016 and Friday 17 June 2016 Police, along with Palmerston North City Council and Manawatu District Council licensing inspectors, and Health representatives, conducted two controlled purchase operations (CPO) in the Palmerston North and Feilding areas, targeting off-licence and on-licence premises.

Two volunteers aged between 16 and 18 years-old visited licensed premises and attempted to purchase alcohol.

The premises visited included supermarkets, bottle stores and bars.

“Alcohol and young people can be a dangerous mix,” said Sergeant Brendon Gerrish.

“The sale of alcohol to under 18s is one of the most serious breaches of the Sale of Liquor Act as the alcohol related harm that can result can often have tragic consequences.”

Of the 45 premises we visited only one premises in Feilding failed by selling alcohol to a volunteer.

In general all agencies are pleased with the result.

The failure will be fully investigated before any action is taken.

CPOs are used in conjunction with licence compliance checks to ensure licensed premises and certified managers are operating within legislative requirements.

ENDS

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