Minister Marais commends Western Cape Liquor Authority and Law Enforcement agencies following R9 million illicit liquor seizure and arrests

Western Cape Minister of Police Oversight and Community Safety, Anroux Marais, has commended the Western Cape Liquor Authority (WCLA), the South African Police Service (SAPS), and the South African Revenue Service (SARS) for their collaborative efforts that resulted in the seizure of suspected illicit and non-compliant liquor with an estimated value of approximately R9 million and the arrest of three suspects in the Stellenbosch and Klapmuts areas.

The operation stems from routine compliance inspections conducted by WCLA inspectors at a licenced off-consumption liquor outlet on 14 May 2026 and 2 June 2026. During these inspections, officials identified suspected illicit and export-restricted liquor being stored on the premises in contravention of licence conditions. The matter was subsequently referred to SAPS and SARS Customs for further investigation and enforcement action.

The information uncovered through the WCLA's regulatory inspections ultimately contributed to a broader law enforcement intervention by the Provincial Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Policing Team and the Anti-Economic Crimes Task Team. This operation led to the recovery of a substantial quantity of suspected illicit liquor from a warehouse in Klapmuts and the arrest of three foreign nationals.

Minister Marais said, "This successful operation highlights the critical role played by the Western Cape Liquor Authority in protecting lawful trade, promoting compliance within the liquor industry, and supporting efforts to combat illicit economic activity. The vigilance and professionalism displayed by WCLA inspectors demonstrate the importance of proactive regulatory oversight in identifying criminal conduct that may otherwise go undetected."

Minister Marais noted that illicit liquor trading not only deprives the fiscus of vital revenue but also poses significant risks to consumer safety and undermines law-abiding businesses operating within the liquor sector.

"The Western Cape Government remains committed to supporting institutions that play a vital role in creating safer communities and a lawful business environment. The Western Cape Liquor Authority is a provincially funded entity that performs an essential regulatory function. Its inspectors are often the first line of defence in identifying non-compliance and suspicious activity within the liquor industry. This case demonstrates the value of investing in capable oversight institutions and fostering strong partnerships between regulators and law enforcement agencies", Minister Marais concluded.

Media Enquiries:
Kurt Nefdt, Acting MLO to Minister Anroux Marais
Cell: 084 285 1975
Email: Kurt.Nefdt@westerncape.gov.za