Police to carry out test purchasing operations in Caithness and Sutherland in coming weeks

28th February 2014

Police Scotland Highland and Islands Division will be carrying out test purchasing operations in the Caithness and Sutherland areas of the Division in the forthcoming weeks.

The scheme consists of a fully briefed teenager (under 18 years of age) entering licensed premises under controlled conditions and in line with agreed guidelines to purchase alcohol.

If the proprietor does not ask the person their age and allows them to purchase alcohol they will be committing an offence, even if their excuse is that they thought they were 18.

Licence holders will not be duped into committing an offence because if they, as they should do, ask the age of the test purchaser then the youngsters will answer truthfully.

All those who hold licenses to sell alcohol in these areas should be reminded that they could face losing their license if they are caught selling alcohol to a minor.

Police would encourage anyone with information relating to alcohol sale to minors within the community to report it to Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.