An Ethiopian national has been arrested in eQonce over the alleged illegal sale of alcohol.
Qonce SAPS and the Eastern Cape Missing Person & Trafficking Unit carried out the operation on Tuesday, 13 October 2026. According to the unit, the arrest followed an investigation into the sale of illegal and suspected fake alcoholic drinks.
Suspected Illegal Alcohol Supply
The suspect allegedly supplied illegal liquor to a tavern in eTshatshu, Zwelitsha. The unit also reported claims that he ran an illegal alcohol business with his brothers.
Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality’s (BCMM) Municipal Health Services also joined the operation. During the operation, officials took samples of the suspected illegal alcohol for testing.
The tests will show what the drinks contain and whether they meet legal standards. They will also help officials check if the products are genuine.
The investigation covers possible breaches of national and provincial liquor laws. In addition, officials are looking into possible violations of the Customs and Excise Act 91 of 1964 and local health by-laws.
Authorities are also investigating possible fraud linked to fronting.
Investigation Continues
The authorities are now working to find out how far the alleged illegal trade reaches. They also want to identify anyone else who may have taken part.
Meanwhile, investigators have not ruled out further arrests or additional charges.
However, the arrest does not mean the suspect is guilty. The allegations must still go through the legal process.
Source: Eastern Cape Missing Person & Trafficking Unit.
Original report published: 13 October 2026.
