Five Malawian nationals have been arrested following the discovery of an alleged illegal liquor manufacturing operation in Durbanville, one of Cape Town’s upmarket suburbs.
According to JP Smith, the City of Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member (MMC) for Safety and Security, the arrests were made on Monday by metro police neighbourhood safety officers after authorities received a tip-off from concerned community members.
“The discovery came after a tip-off from the community to the public emergency call centre to report suspicious activity around the property,” Smith said.
More Than 2,000 Litres of Homemade Gin Seized
Upon responding to the complaint, officers were granted permission to enter the property. Inside, they uncovered what appeared to be a fully operational illegal liquor plant.
“Once inside, they discovered 11 large drums filled with homemade gin, totalling more than 2,000 litres, as well as a machine seemingly being used to distil the alcohol,” Smith said.
Officers also found empty bottles from two popular alcohol brands, which were allegedly being reused to package the homemade liquor.
“The suspects appeared to be packaging the alcohol to be sold under these brand names,” Smith added.
Charges and Arrests
The suspects — three men and two women, aged between 18 and 39 — were arrested on multiple charges, including:
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Illegal manufacturing of alcohol
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Contravention of the Counterfeit Goods Act
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Possession of presumed stolen property
The scene was later handed over to Durbanville SAPS for further investigation.
Smith confirmed that the homeowner, a Chinese national, was subsequently arrested following further inquiries.
Court Appearance and Forensic Testing
The suspects are expected to appear in the Bellville Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday.
Authorities have confirmed that the seized liquor will be sent for forensic analysis to determine its chemical composition and potential health risks.
Warning Over Counterfeit Alcohol
Smith issued a strong warning about the dangers of counterfeit alcohol, stressing that such products pose a serious public health risk.
“Counterfeit alcohol is extremely dangerous and often contains toxic substances which can lead to severe health issues and even death,” he said.
“I applaud the officers for their swift action.”
Community Tip-Off Praised
The City of Cape Town credited the successful operation to community vigilance, highlighting the importance of residents reporting suspicious activity.
Officials have urged the public to continue using emergency and tip-off lines to help combat illegal activities that threaten public safety.
