Nine businesses in Albufeira saw their activities shut down by the Food and Economic Safety Authority (ASAE) due to non-compliance with opening hours and one due to poor hygiene. In total, 15 establishments were inspected.
The commercial establishments in question were inspected as part of an enforcement operation to verify “compliance with the new rules applicable to the sale and availability of alcoholic beverages, in the context of the measure recently approved by the municipality of Albufeira,” explained ASAE.
‘Operation Safe Night’ targeted the sale of alcohol in Albufeira, after a municipal regulation was approved restricting the sale of alcoholic beverages for consumption in the streets in busy tourist areas between 11pm and 8am, “with the exception of cafés, bars, restaurants and nightclubs”, ASAE clarified.
In the case of cafés, bars, restaurants and nightclubs, alcoholic beverages can be sold for consumption “inside the establishment”, stressed ASAE, which deployed members of the Faro and Évora Operational Units and the National Criminal Investigation and Information Unit.
The focus of the ASAE operation was mainly convenience stores, which can operate between 8am and midnight. Those businesses failing to comply with opening hours will be “referred to the Albufeira City Council for investigation and a final decision”, ASAE added.
“In addition, various foodstuffs were also seized because they did not meet the conditions required for consumption or sale,” ASAE pointed out, highlighting the collaboration of the Albufeira GNR during the operation.
The stricter stance on the sale of alcohol in Albufeira aims to combat public disorder and targets establishments located on Avenida Sá Carneiro (Oura Strip) and adjacent streets, as well as in downtown Albufeira.
According to the executive’s decision, failure to comply with the rules may result in the immediate closure of establishments, and traders found guilty of the crime of disobedience.
The measure will remain in place until October 31, and can be extended if necessary, and is in addition to the municipality’s Code of Conduct, which came into force on June 24 to prevent abusive behaviour, such as public nudity (complete or partial), simulated sexual acts and public drinking.
