Westonaria: The police in Gauteng arrested two Taiwan nationals who are suspected to be the owners of an illicit alcohol manufacturing plant in Westonaria. At the manufacturing plant, police discovered illicit alcohol with an estimated value of R1 million already packaged for distribution and stored inside eleven 250-litre drums.

According to South African Police Service, four illegal immigrants employed by the suspects reported the illegal activities at their workplace to the local police station. Upon arrival, the police discovered that illicit and fake alcohol were being manufactured, bottled, and packaged for distribution. The alcohol included whiskey, brandy, gin, and vodka, some of which were branded with known alcohol brands. Chemicals suspected to be part of the manufacturing process were also found.

Some employees allege they were held against their will and subjected to excessive working hours under unhealthy conditions. The suspects are expected to appear before the Westonaria Magistrate Court facing charges that include dealing in illicit liquor, Contravention of the Liquor Act, and Contravention of the Customs Act.