The crackdown over illegal booze continued in Gauteng. Gauteng police arrested suspects during  their operation to shut down fake alcohol firms.The cops have shut down an illegal distillery in Katlehong and arrested 11 suspects in a sting operation.Police spokesperson, Colonel Dimakatso Sello, said the. arrest forms part of their ongoing efforts to fight crime. "On Tuesday, the team consisting of members from CrimeIntelligence, Provincial Investigation Unit, Ekurhuleni Trio Task Team, SAPS Katlehong, DPCI, Immigration Officers and Brand Protectors operationalised information about a group of people manufacturing illicit alcohol in Katlehong," Sello said.

FAKE BOOZE EVERYWHERE

The operation yielded illicit liquor with an estimated street value of R5 million.                                                                                                                                                      "Of the 11 suspects, two are suspected to be foreign nationals and are due to be processed by the Department of Home Affairs. The suspects will be charged with operating an illegal micro distillery, contravening the Liquor Act and unlawful possession of ethanol. The concerted efforts of the teams involved are commendable and appreciable," Sello added.In June, cops in Gauteng confiscated counterfeit goods worth more than R2,8 million and closed illegal liquor outlets, seizing alcohol valued at R2 million during the Operation O Kao Molao. Large quantities of fake liquor and clothing were seized.

HEAVY FINES

In another incident, Free State police spokesperson, Captain Stephen Thakeng, said fake liquor was found during an operation where three bottle stores were visited and fake liquor was found and seized.                                                                                                                                                                                                                        "During the same operation, fake clothing and shoes were also found and a large quantity of liquor was seized and destroyed. Residents are advised that when they buy any commodity, they check it thoroughly to make sure that they are buying a real item.This discovery of fake items sends a clear-cut message that residents must not be taken for granted and sold fake items. The law will always be on their side to fine suspects with heavy fines," Captain Thakeng said.