Fake Alcohol Worth R3.5 Million Seized in Eerste River, Chinese National Arrested
A Chinese national was arrested in Eerste River, Western Cape, on Tuesday after police uncovered suspected counterfeit alcohol worth an estimated R3.5 million during a major raid.
The operation, conducted under “Operation Prosper,” involved a multi-agency task team comprising the SAPS Counterfeit Unit, the Liquor Authority, SARS, and the SANDF.
Authorities believe the illicit alcohol was intended for export.
Police raided a liquor store in the area and seized 6,201 litres of various alcoholic products believed to be counterfeit.
The shop owner, a Chinese national, was arrested at the scene and is currently being held at Kleinvlei Police Station. He is expected to appear in the Blue Downs Magistrate’s Court once formal charges are finalised.
The bust forms part of ongoing crackdowns on counterfeit goods in the Western Cape.
Police have warned that counterfeit alcohol poses serious health risks to consumers.
