Police Raid Uncovers ‘Woolworths’ Counterfeit Food Operation In Gauteng

Police in Gauteng have uncovered a counterfeit food operation involving expired Lucky Star canned fish being re-labelled and packaged as Woolworths Food products.

During a raid on Monday, November 11, 2024, seven undocumented migrants, aged between 18 and 29, were arrested at a factory in Daleside, where workers were altering expiry dates on the expired canned fish.

Details of the Operation

Captain Tintswalo Sibeko, provincial police spokesperson, stated that the owner of the operation remains at large. “On November 11, 2024, a joint operation between Crime Intelligence from Zamdela, Sasolburg and SAPS Kliprivier yielded significant results in the fight against counterfeit goods,” said Sibeko.

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Seized Items

During the raid along Eland Street, law enforcement authorities seized a large quantity of counterfeit Lucky Star pilchards. Additionally, printing equipment used to alter expiry dates on the containers of expired Lucky Star packaging was discovered. These altered tins were then placed in boxes marked “Woolworths Food.”

Arrests and Legal Actions

“Seven illegal immigrants aged between 18 and 29 years were arrested. The owner of the operation remains at large,” Sibeko confirmed.

“Police opened a case of contravention of the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act (Act 54 of 1972), Section 17(c), possession of suspected stolen properties, and contravention of the Immigration Act, Act 13 of 2002.” The arrested suspects will appear in court soon.

Previous Incidents

This incident follows similar actions taken last year when the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) arrested two foreign nationals linked to an illegal potato chips manufacturing factory.

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During a routine stop-and-search operation, JMPD officers found that the address on the packages of the potato chips did not match the manufacturer’s address and lacked the SABS mark of approval.

Public Health Concerns

In recent months, several children in Gauteng and other parts of South Africa have suffered from food-borne diseases, with some fatalities reported. Community members have accused spaza shops in the townships of selling “fake and expired” food products.

Woolworths’ Response

SurgeZirc SA has reached out to Woolworths for a comment. The response will be added once received.

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