Police in KwaZulu-Natal conducted an operation in the Bluff area south of Durban on Wednesday, 20 November. They discovered warehouses with expired food, hazardous chemicals, and counterfeit goods.
Expired food found near dangerous chemicals
Police officers found large quantities of expired food items, including canned fish, fizzy drinks, baby food, and spices, stored alongside hazardous chemicals such as pesticides. Counterfeit prescription medication, expired alcohol, and body lotion were also seized. The authorities believe these products are sold mainly in township and village spaza shops and pose severe health risks.
Fake designer clothing worth millions seized
In two additional warehouses, police discovered counterfeit clothing from international brands worth millions of rand. Investigations indicate the goods were likely smuggled into the country and distributed through organized networks.
Furthermore, Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi applauded the collaborative efforts of the police units involved and called the operation a big step in disrupting these illegal networks.
“[We will] not leave any stone unturned in search of the people who put the lives of South Africans at risk, especially children who buy expired food from local spaza shops,” he vowed, according to the SAPS statement.
Authorities tighten port security
In response to the discovery, police have intensified port operations to monitor vessels suspected of carrying unauthorised goods. Law enforcement officials warn that smuggling operations endanger public health and the economy.
Additionally, the Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu, commended the exceptional work of law enforcement officials in making South Africa safer amid the ongoing challenges of illegal explosives and food-borne illnesses.
“These successful operations demonstrate our unwavering commitment to safeguarding South Africans from criminal activities that threaten their lives and well-being,” he said.
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