Timaru Police will prosecute after a minor was able to buy alcohol in an underage sting that targeted 23 different premises, including on- and off-licences, plus restaurants.

Sergeant Grant Lord said the controlled purchase operation was on Saturday, with one place to face a prosecution with the Liquor Licensing Authority, which could force it to close for a few days.

A separate prosecution was also being considered against a man, 23, who was caught in the operation buying two youths, aged 17, beer at an off-licence.

"The operation targeted the ‘no identification, no serve' policies, with the volunteers not having any identification," he said.

"It was very disappointing to have a purchase made. As a result of this purchase, police will be taking a prosecution to the Liquor Licensing Authority."

Mr Lord said the operation was a joint venture with the Timaru District Council and the South Canterbury District Health Board.

"Management from one restaurant were spoken to after concerns were raised that they may have been operating outside their licence conditions."

- © Fairfax NZ News

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