Police seize millions in illegal alcohol during raid in JHB
Gauteng police have uncovered a major illegal alcohol distillery operating in Jeppe, Johannesburg, seizing counterfeit liquor and equipment.
The total amount of seized alcohol and equipment is said to be worth over R3.5 million.
Acting on intelligence, members of the Gauteng Highway Patrol, Provincial Organised Crime Unit, and Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) K9 Unit raided the premises, where they discovered large-scale production of counterfeit whiskey, vodka, and gin.
Upon arrival, officers were greeted by a man claiming to be the owner of the operation. He presented a liquor license registered to a business in Mpumalanga, raising further suspicions.
"A search of the premises revealed a full-scale illicit distillery, including machinery for manufacturing alcohol and counterfeit labelling and packaging materials. Authorities confirmed that all items seized—including undeclared stock and equipment—carry an estimated value of R3.5 million, including losses related to SARS excise duties," said police spokesperson Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi.
"Six suspects, including the alleged owner and five employees, were arrested on the scene. The South African Revenue Service (SARS) Customs Division and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations (DPCI), commonly known as the Hawks, have taken over the investigation."
The suspects are expected to appear in court soon on charges related to illegal manufacturing, fraud, and tax evasion.
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