Umhlali Police multi-disciplinary operation together with KwaZulu Natal Provincial Counterfeit Contraband and Illicit Goods Unit, cracked down on an illegal liquor manufacturing business operating in the Umhlali Policing Precinct, seizing counterfeit and illegal liquor to the value of 1.5 million rand, as well as arrested the 36-year-old business manager.
Law enforcement sized over 26000 sachets of local branded liquor, over 60 crates filled with unbranded sachets of liquor, several boxes of counterfeit liquor, and five 1000 litre containers of ethanol used to manufacture the liquor. The truck delivering the ethanol was also seized during the raid.
The business, operating from a farm along the secluded R104 road in Umhlali contained heavy machinery which distilled, mixed and packaged liquor on the premises. The business was supplying liquor to several businesses in the Ballito area, including branded alcoholic drinks for businesses.
The 36-year-old suspect was arrested and charged for manufacturing and distribution of illicit liquor. The suspect will appear in KwaDukuza Magistrates Court in due time.
The ILembe District Police Commissioner, Major General Anthony Gopaul expresses his appreciation to the multi-disciplinary team. “We are hoping that the impact of this operation will be seen in the reduction of our contact crimes and the reduction of alcohol abuse in the ILembe District that has been very visible in the last year”, said Major General Gopaul.
