Gauteng police have expressed alarm over the continued sale of illicit alcohol in the province, warning that it endangers public health and harms the economy. In recent weeks, authorities destroyed thousands of litres of such alcohol from illegal outlets.
Gauteng police are voicing strong concerns about the persistent sale of illicit alcohol in various outlets across the province, even after repeated appeals for legal compliance. Officials highlight that this illegally produced alcohol poses a serious threat to public safety, as it can be toxic and harmful to consumers.
Over the past few weeks, law enforcement teams have raided and destroyed thousands of litres of such contraband, much of it originating from unlicensed liquor operations. Provincial Deputy Police Commissioner Major General Fred Kekana emphasized the broader implications during a recent statement.
"Illicit liquor, illicit cigarettes, illicit clothing, it’s part of our challenge. Because it has a direct impact … you know if this type of things come in the country through backdoor or manufactured in the backdoors, backrooms and they are toxic … not genuine," Kekana said.
He further explained the economic fallout: "It kills the economy of the country because those that are legit doing honest business end up losing clients, business because of illicit illegal structures – which we cannot allow. As law enforcement we will deal with them day in day out."
This crackdown underscores ongoing efforts to curb illegal trade that undermines legitimate businesses and public health in South Africa. Police continue to monitor and act against such violations to protect communities.