Police crackdown on counterfeit alcohol: Five arrested, including a sergeant

A police officer is one of five suspects who were arrested for counterfeiting alcohol in the Eastern Cape during a police operation. 

The suspects, who include a police sergeant, range in age from 29 to 61.

The group was arrested on Wednesday, February 11, in Ngqamakhwe, Butterworth, and Msobomvu Township.

The provincial police spokesperson, Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana, said information was received on February 8, regarding individuals allegedly manufacturing and distributing counterfeit versions of well-known alcoholic brands, including Gordon’s Gin and Old Buck Gin, which were being sold at discounted prices.

“In Ngqamakhwe, a joint operation by Butterworth Visible Policing, Mthatha DPCI, and brand owners led to the arrest of two suspects aged 33 and 40. Among those arrested is a police sergeant stationed at a local police station. Items seized included boxes of Old Buck Gin, 25-litre containers filled with unknown chemicals, over 1,300 counterfeit stickers, large quantities of empty bottles, cardboard packaging, and alcohol mixtures. The estimated value of the confiscated goods is R250,000,” Gantana said. 

Further investigations in Butterworth yielded success. 

“In Butterworth, a joint operation by Mthatha Hawks, Dutywa Visible Policing, and brand representatives searched premises in Qolora Close, Extension 7. Two suspects, aged 29 and 33, were arrested for the manufacturing of counterfeit alcohol. 

“Police seized 175 750ml bottles of Gordon’s Dry Gin, nine  750ml bottles of Old Buck Gin, five 25-litre containers of Old Buck Gin, glue guns, funnels, empty bottles, gin caps, and other manufacturing equipment. The estimated value of the confiscated goods is R100,000,” Gantana said.

The fifth suspect, a 61-year-old, was arrested in the Msobomvu Township. 

“The suspect was arrested following the discovery of multiple cases of Russian Bear Vodka, Gordon’s Gin, and Old Buck Gin, along with 250-litre containers of flammable liquid, bottle caps, and additional 25-litre containers filled with liquid. The estimated value of the seized property is R90,000,” Gantana said.

All suspects face charges relating to the manufacturing and possession of counterfeit alcohol. Police said further profiling and investigative work are ongoing.

“The South African Police Service has reiterated that no one is above the law. Any police official found to be involved in criminal conduct will face the full might of the law. The SAPS remains steadfast in its commitment to rooting out corruption within its ranks and ensuring that those entrusted to uphold the law do so with integrity,” Gantana said.

[email protected]

IOL