They have been arrested after police uncovered a suspected illegal liquor manufacturing plant on a farm in the Rietfontein area of Stilfontein. The illicit liquor is estimated to be worth R1.4m. 

North West police reportedly acted on information received and raided the farm on Thursday evening (15/10). As officers approached the premises at approximately 22:00, several suspects reportedly fled in different directions. The police arrested four suspects, aged 28 to 54.

Four suspects have been arrested after police uncovered a suspected illegal liquor manufacturing plant. Photo: SAPS

Three of the suspects are believed to be undocumented foreign nationals from Malawi, while the fourth is a South African citizen who is allegedly the owner of the business, said North West police spokesperson Col. Adéle Myburgh.

“The police confiscated raw materials allegedly used in the production of liquor, including flavourants, colourants, pots, and flow bins. Several storage tanks were also found on the premises.” 

“Several storage tanks were also found on the premises. The contents of these tanks will be subjected to testing, as they are suspected to contain ethanol.”

Some of these items were seized by the police. Photo: SAPS

North West provincial commissioner Lt. Gen. Arthur Peter Adams said police would continue targeting criminal syndicates involved in the illicit liquor trade. He emphasised these syndicates exploit tax differentials and pose significant risks to consumers through the production and distribution of illicit liquor.

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