The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has dismantled an alleged illicit liquor manufacturing operation in Harare’s Msasa Industrial Area, arresting two Chinese nationals and seizing suspected counterfeit alcoholic beverages and industrial equipment used in the production process.
In a statement yesterday, the ZRP confirmed the arrests and outlined a range of charges the suspects are facing.
“The ZRP confirms the arrest of Gan Chen (52) and Peng Yujun (52) for manufacturing and distributing illicit alcoholic beverages in Msasa Industrial Area, Harare,” said the police.
According to the ZRP, the suspects are facing multiple charges under various pieces of legislation governing public health, workplace safety, environmental management and commercial operations.
“The suspects are facing charges which include contravening sections of the Harmful Liquids Act, Chapter 9:10, Foods and Food Standards Labelling Regulations, Factory and Works Act, Chapter 14:08, Environmental Management (Control of Hazardous Substances) and Shop Licensing Act, Chapter 14:17,” the police said.
During the operation, law enforcement officers reportedly recovered large quantities of suspected illicit alcoholic products as well as equipment believed to have been used in the manufacturing process.
“Several illicit substances such as purported Vodka, Spirits and Wine were recovered,” said the ZRP.
The police added that a significant amount of industrial equipment was seized from the premises.
“Bottling machines, distillation tanker, boiler, separator and other equipment were also seized by the Police,” the statement said.
The Police have not yet disclosed the quantity of alcoholic beverages recovered or the estimated value of the seized products and equipment. Investigations are continuing to establish the full scale of the operation and determine whether additional suspects may have been involved.
