Seven foreign nationals have been apprehended for operating an illegal alcohol production facility in Klapmuts in a significant crackdown on illicit trade, Cape {town} Etc reports.
The arrests occurred on Monday, as members of the Maitland Flying Squad responded to intelligence about the unlicensed manufacturing of alcohol at a premises along the R44 road.
Police spokesperson Wesley Twigg confirmed the operation, revealing that the team discovered not only advanced alcohol manufacturing equipment but also a substantial amount of raw materials.
‘The members visited the premises on the R44 in Klapmuts and found the facility fully equipped for alcohol production,‘ Twigg stated.
The police seized valuable evidence, including containers filled with ethanol, alongside ten large 1000-litre containers, numerous empty bottles and various machines used in the production process, Twigg said.
The detainees, seven Somali nationals, comprise five males aged between 25 and 43 years and two females, both aged 20. They now face serious charges under the Liquor Act, reflecting the gravity of the offence.
‘Once charged, the suspects are due to appear in the Paarl Magistrates’ Court on the mentioned charges,’ Twigg added.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges posed by illegal alcohol production in South Africa, where unregulated manufacturing poses significant risks not only to consumer safety but also to the legitimate alcohol industry.
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Picture: SAPS
