Citation tickets

• VRU flags 3 bars, issues citations to 74 customers

THE VICES Regulation Unit (VRU) issued citation tickets to 74 individuals during a series of early morning raids on three bars along Cabaguio Avenue and Monteverde Street on Sunday, Dec. 28.

VRU enforcers, led by team leader Jay Francia, targeted the establishments following reports of persistent violations of the city’s Liquor Code.

According to Francia, the operation at a bar on Cabaguio Avenue initially hit a setback at 2 a.m. when the management refused to open the doors. 

“The establishment was closed, and the glass door was covered with garbage bags, but we noticed plenty of customers drinking through a small opening,” Francia told TIMES.

The team temporarily left to inspect the next-door establishment, where they successfully caught management in the act of violating the liquor code. Eighteen individuals, including the bar’s representative, were issued citation tickets.

The VRU team then used a “decoy” tactic to gain entry into the second bar. After pretending to leave the area, enforcers spotted customers exiting through a side door. 

Francia immediately entered the building, finding a large crowd still drinking inside. While some managed to flee, 40 individuals were issued tickets.

“That club is noted for constantly violating the liquor ban. We planned to make them think we had already left. When they opened their secret side door, I was able to enter,” Francia said.

The operation concluded past 3 a.m., with a final inspection at a bar along Monteverde Street at 4:30 a.m., where another 16 citation tickets were issued.

“Two bars will be recommended to be flagged during the renewal of their permits,” he said. “They must first go to the VRU to correct (their records) or settle any penalty.”