R105 000 Counterfeit Liquor Seized From Vehicle Leaving Komani

A major counterfeit liquor operation was disrupted on Saturday afternoon when members of the Provincial Anti-Gang Unit arrested two suspects and seized counterfeit alcohol valued at approximately R105 000 along the N6 route between Queenstown and Bloemfontein.

According to information released by police, the operation unfolded at around 15:00 on Saturday, 14 March 2026, after officers received intelligence about a Toyota Hilux suspected of transporting illegal contraband.

Operators from the Anti-Gang Unit positioned themselves strategically along the route and soon spotted the vehicle matching the description travelling toward Bloemfontein.

The vehicle was stopped and searched.

Counterfeit liquor discovered in vehicle

During the search, officers discovered multiple boxes of counterfeit liquor inside the vehicle.

Police said the estimated street value of the seized goods is R105 000.

The occupants of the vehicle — a 24-year-old man and a 22-year-old woman — were questioned about the origin of the alcohol.

However, according to police, the pair failed to produce valid invoices or documentation and were unable to explain where the liquor had come from.

Both suspects were immediately arrested.

Suspects to appear in court

The two suspects have been charged with possession of counterfeit goods and were detained following their arrest.

They are expected to make their first appearance in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court soon.

Police have not yet indicated whether further arrests could follow or whether investigators are pursuing links to a broader counterfeit distribution network.

Ongoing fight against illicit trade

Law enforcement agencies have intensified operations targeting the illegal trade in counterfeit goods, including fake alcohol, clothing and electronics.

Authorities warn that counterfeit liquor not only harms legitimate businesses but can also pose serious health risks to consumers, as the contents and production methods are often unregulated.

Operations such as the N6 interception form part of ongoing efforts to curb illicit trade and disrupt organised crime networks operating across provincial routes.

Investigations into the origin and intended distribution of the seized liquor are continuing.