By Palesa Matlala
- A Soweto tavern owner says he sells fake alcohol at reduced prices and makes about R30,000 profit every month from the illegal trade.
- Customers in Diepkloof can buy a six pack for R70 less than in shops, but some say the taste is different and fear it could be unsafe.
A Soweto tavern owner has admitted that he buys and sells fake alcohol to beat his competitors and keep his business alive.
Zaks, who runs a tavern in Diepkloof, says he sells the drinks at lower prices because people are struggling with the high cost of living. He believes he is helping customers who still want to enjoy a drink but cannot afford shop prices.
“I stock the alcohol at a lesser price and sell it at a reduced price. People want to have a drink or two but not at the rising cost,” said Zaks.
But some customers are worried.
Pule Mashego, 46, from Soweto, said he became suspicious when his wife started buying her favourite drink from the tavern.
“The tavern gets so full everyday. You can buy a six pack of beer for R70 less than at retail stores. This is when I got suspicious,” said Mashego.
He said it was not just the cheap price that raised alarm bells.
According to Mashego, “the taste is not the same”.
Zaks disagrees. He insists the taste is no different from drinks sold in shops.
At most outlets, a six pack of cider costs about R130, depending on the brand. At Zaks’s tavern, it sells for R100.
A 750ml beer usually costs R25. Zaks sells it for R20.
While many taverns make most of their money at month end, Zaks says he makes steady profits every week. He claims he earns about R30,000 a month.
Research shows that fake alcohol is often made illegally in unlicensed distilleries or even in people’s homes. It is then packaged to look like well known brands.
There is no guarantee what is inside these bottles.
Experts warn that counterfeit alcohol can pose serious health risks and may even lead to death.
Pictured above: Police raided a liquor outlet in Sedibeng District and found fake alcohol earlier in February.
Image source: SAPS
