Two fake detergent operations halted
Chemicals and counterfeit cleaning products worth millions were seized during a Hawks operation at an alleged illegal manufacturing site in Boksburg’s Windmill Park informal settlement.
Police uncovered two suspected illegal detergent manufacturing operations in Boksburg within days of each other, seizing chemicals and counterfeit cleaning products believed to be worth millions of rands.
Members of the Hawks raided a suspected makeshift manufacturing facility at the Windmill Park informal settlement on March 3.
According to DPCI spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale, the operation followed information received from a brand holder about a site allegedly producing detergents and foam bath products.
“Upon arrival at the premises, members discovered large quantities of chemicals and finished products, including thick bleach, fabric softener, dishwashing liquid, foam bath and ammonia-based cream cleaner,” said Mogale.
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She added that it is alleged the chemicals were mixed in 200-litre barrels and repackaged into recycled containers bearing labels of well-known brands manufactured by Unilever and Colgate-Palmolive.
“Chemicals recovered at the scene included caustic soda, kulubrite, soda ash light, sodium hypochlorite and sodium chloride, which are commonly used in the production of detergents and soaps.
“Members also confiscated empty containers that were allegedly intended to be cleaned and reused for further repackaging. All seized finished products and chemicals will be subjected to forensic chemical analysis to determine their composition and to establish whether they are counterfeit and in contravention of applicable legislation,” Mogale said.
She added that the DPCI remains committed to protecting consumers and legitimate businesses from the spread of counterfeit and illegally manufactured goods. Investigations into the matter are ongoing.
Another operation burst
On March 4, Dawn Park police arrested two suspects on March 4 in Villa Liza for allegedly running an illegal detergent manufacturing operation.
Spokesperson Nkemeleng Mabula said officers and private security personnel acted on intelligence about a property where illicit cleaning products were being produced.
“Upon arriving at the premises, the team discovered large quantities of chemicals and finished products, including thick bleach, fabric softener, dishwashing liquid, foam bath and ammonia-based tile cleaner.
“It is alleged that the chemicals were mixed in 250-litre barrels and repackaged into recycled containers bearing labels of well-known brands manufactured by Unilever.
“All chemicals, products and equipment, including a bench grinder machine, were seized. The seized items will undergo forensic chemical analysis to support further investigations,” Mabula added.
The two suspects, aged 22 and 24, are facing charges related to the manufacturing of illicit goods.
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