JOHANNESBURG – President Cyril Ramaphosa says the sale of alcohol will be suspended with immediate effect.

Ramaphosa made the announcement during a media briefing on Sunday.

“We have therefore decided that in order to conserve hospital capacity, the sale, dispensing and distribution of alcohol will be suspended with immediate effect,” said Ramaphosa.

“There is now clear evidence that the resumption of alcohol sales has resulted in substantial pressure being put on hospitals, including trauma and ICU units, due to motor vehicle accidents, violence and related trauma,” he added.

The president also said there will be a curfew from 9pm to 4am and it will take effect tomorrow.

The President also announced that the country will remain on alert level 3 lockdown.

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