Renthia Kaimbi
The Walvis Bay Crime Fighting Unit (WBCFU), a community watch group known for tackling crime, found itself dealing with complaints about noise from the newly opened La Vine Lounge.
The lounge, which had been operating for less than five days and is not classified as a nightclub, quickly became a topic of discussion in the WBCFU’s WhatsApp group. The complaints grew so frequent that one member, Peter Poldavsky, created a separate group titled “V Lounge Must Fall”. The group was later deleted.
When contacted for comment, Poldavsky confirmed he started the group but said it was not meant to cause conflict. “I opened the group so we don’t pollute the WBCFU group with irrelevant comments,” he said.
He said his position changed after meeting with the lounge owners. “I have since met with the owners of the establishment, who gave me a tour of the premises, and I have also deleted the group. I extended my apologies to the owners and no longer want to be involved with this matter.”
Poldavsky said he withdrew from the issue and left it to the authorities. “The music was suddenly just too loud and many people informed me that they lodged individual complaints with the relevant authorities, but I’m no longer involved with this matter,” he said.
In response, La Vine Lounge co-owners Javine and Jadine Doëseb said they had accepted Poldavsky’s apology and were ready to move forward. “What happened was completely unacceptable, but we have agreed to move forward in peace and harmony,” they said.
The brothers said their business operates within the law and is properly licensed. “From our side, we remain fully compliant with the laws of this country; there is absolutely no way we will disregard any legal or statutory obligations. All our required documents are in order, and the zoning of our business is properly approved. Any claims suggesting otherwise are false. Our operational hours are clearly defined and in full compliance with the law,” they said.
They said they have taken steps to maintain good relations with the community. “Furthermore, we have gone the extra mile to engage our neighbouring shops and both nearby churches to ensure that no loud music is played during their service times. This is how considerate and community-minded we are,” they said.
The Doësebs also warned against misinformation being spread on social media. “For your attention and clarity: Velvet Lounge operated in the same street near where FurnMart is located, and Palaza was in between, yet there were never such outcries or complaints. This area is zoned for business purposes, not residential, and that is precisely where our establishment is situated,” they said.
They urged residents to stop spreading false claims. “Lastly, for the future, please refrain from bringing the name or reputation of our business into any form of disrepute. Should that occur, there will be legal implications that you may not appreciate, personally or otherwise,” they said.
With the “V Lounge Must Fall” group deleted and its founder having withdrawn his complaint, the owners of La Vine Lounge say they hope the community can now move forward peacefully.
