REPORTER  

AN Eastern Cape police sergeant was among five suspects arrested for allegedly being involved in the manufacture and distribution of counterfeit well-known alcoholic brands.

Police conducted intelligence-driven operations on February 11 in the townships of Ngqamakhwe, Butterworth and Msobomvu.

Police spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana said police found containers filled with unknown chemicals, counterfeit stickers, large quantities of empty bottles, cardboard packaging and alcohol mixtures.

“The estimated value of the confiscated goods is R250 000,” she explained.

She further said that in the joint operation they also seized bottles of alcohol, glue guns, funnels, empty bottles, gin caps and other manufacturing equipment to an estimated value of R100 000.

In another area, police discovered multiple cases of alcohol along with 250-litre containers of flammable liquid, bottle caps and additional 25-litre containers filled with liquid.

All suspects face charges related to the manufacturing and possession of counterfeit alcohol.

“Any police official found to be involved in criminal conduct will face the full might of the law. SAPS remain steadfast in its commitment to rooting out corruption within its ranks and ensuring that those entrusted to uphold the law do so with integrity,” she concluded.