Zuko Komisa

- A father and son were arrested in Midrand for running an illegal alcohol manufacturing plant.
- Police seized R2 million worth of counterfeit spirits and chemicals from the facility.
- The suspects face charges including contravening the Liquor and Customs Acts.
A father and son have been arrested after police in Gauteng uncovered a massive illegal alcohol manufacturing operation in Midrand on Wednesday.
The bust, which came after a tip-off from a member of the public, led to the discovery of illicit liquor with an estimated value of R2 million.
Officers from the Gauteng Highway Patrol Unit responded to a report of suspicious activity at a property in the area. Upon arrival, they found a sophisticated plant producing various counterfeit spirits, including brandy, gin, rum, and vodka.
The illegal products, some of which were branded with well-known labels, were already packaged for distribution, while others were found in large containers. Police also seized chemicals suspected to be used in the manufacturing process.
A 36-year-old man was initially arrested at the scene. Further investigation quickly led police to a second suspect, a 70-year-old man, believed to be the younger man’s father.
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), also known as the Hawks, joined the Highway Patrol Unit to process the scene.
#sapsGP Police in Gauteng arrested a father and son after illicit alcohol manufacturing plant was uncovered in Midrand on Wednesday, 06/08. At the manufacturing plant, police discovered illicit alcohol to the estimated value of R2 million already packaged for distribution and… pic.twitter.com/16H2i1BEPv
— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) August 8, 2025
The two suspects are now set to appear before the Midrand Magistrate Court to face charges, including dealing in illicit liquor and contravening both the Liquor and Customs Acts.
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