The suspects have been manufacturing illicit alcohol from a home in Stutterheim.
Image: SAPS
Eastern Cape police have dismantled a major counterfeit alcohol manufacturing and distribution plant in Stutterheim, arresting six suspects and seizing illicit goods valued at over R500,000.
The operation, which took place on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, uncovered a large-scale setup allegedly responsible for producing and packaging various brands of fake spirits.
The provincial police spokesperson, Captain Majola Nkohli, confirmed that the breakthrough followed a targeted vehicle checkpoint on the N6.
On Wednesday evening, police received a tip-off regarding a white Nissan Panel Van traveling from KuGompo City toward Stutterheim.
The alcohol seized by police.
Image: SAPS
“Members from Visible Policing in Stutterheim manned a vehicle checkpoint (VCP) on the N6 targeting the said vehicle. Around 7pm, members spotted the vehicle fitting the description and pulled it off the road. The vehicle had one occupant and was filled with clean, empty bottles,” Nkohli said.
A preliminary investigation led police to a residence in Entilini, Lower Khologha.
“Preliminary investigation led members to a house where they allegedly found five occupants producing and packaging various brands of counterfeit alcoholic spirits. Police seized several boxes of illicit alcohol and R6,570 cash. It is believed that the site has been operating as a manufacturing factory since 2025,” Nkohli added.
The alcohol was being manufactured and distributed from this home.
Image: SAPS
The six suspects, aged between 22 and 36, are expected to appear in court soon to face charges under the Counterfeit Goods Act and the Liquor Act.
Acting Amathole District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Zinikele Freddie, commended the officers for the successful bust.
"Illicit alcohol is a health hazard, and communities are urged to report these unlawful factories to the police,” Freddie said.
robin.francke@iol.co.za
IOL