Six men have been arrested by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Stutterheim for allegedly manufacturing and distributing counterfeit alcoholic beverages.
The arrests followed a police operation on Wednesday evening, 22 April 2026, after authorities received intelligence about a white Nissan panel van travelling from KuGompo City to Stutterheim. The vehicle, reportedly bearing Gauteng registration plates, was suspected of being linked to illicit activities.
Members of the Visible Policing Unit set up a vehicle checkpoint along the N6 to intercept the van. At approximately 19:00, officers identified and stopped the vehicle, which was driven by a single occupant. Upon inspection, the van was found to be loaded with empty, clean bottles.
Further investigation led police to a residence in Entilini, Lower Khologha, where five additional suspects were discovered. The group was allegedly involved in producing and packaging counterfeit alcoholic spirits. Authorities confiscated fake liquor estimated to be worth over R500,000, along with several boxes of illicit alcohol and cash amounting to R6,570.
Police believe the premises had been operating as an illegal manufacturing site since 2025.
The six suspects, aged between 22 and 36, are expected to appear in court soon. They face charges under the Counterfeit Goods Act 31 of 1997, as well as violations of the Liquor Act.
Acting Amathole District Commissioner, Brigadier Zinikele Freddie, commended the officers involved in the operation. She also urged community members to report any suspected illegal alcohol production, warning that counterfeit liquor poses serious health risks.
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