MPUMALANGA – The Hawks’ Secunda-based Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit, alongside Charl Cillier SAPS, arrested a farmer for allegedly repackaging expired and rotten food for human consumption. Authorities acted on a tip from a reliable source.
Police Discover Expired Food in Warehouse Raid
Police allege the 30-year-old farmer collected expired food from chain stores and distributors. The farmer claimed the food was meant for his domestic animals. However, a raid on his farm revealed two warehouses stocked with food unfit for human consumption.
Authorities also found approximately 1,000 crates of expired dairy products, including cheese. As well as, four cold rooms containing expired canned products, rotten red meat, and chicken.
In the raid, the police seized a truck equipped with a cold room, two light delivery vehicles—one loaded with meat—and an empty bakkie for further investigation.
Authorities Find Equipment Used for Repackaging
Investigators uncovered seven freezers filled with repackaged wheat, flour, and maize meal. Equipment used for vacuum sealing, weighing, and plastic sealing was also found at the scene. Police seized stickers and pricing machines, which were allegedly used to mislabel the expired food for sale.
Major General Nico Gerber, Mpumalanga’s Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, condemned the operation. “This is a massive blow to the packager. These products were destined for unsuspecting consumers. Such repackaging poses a severe health risk to communities,” he stated.
Investigation Into Food Fraud Continues
Authorities are now conducting a deeper investigation into the vehicles and distributors involved. Law enforcement warns that repackaging expired food threatens public health and violates food safety regulations.
The suspect is expected to appear in court soon. As this case highlights ongoing concerns about food fraud and the need for stricter enforcement to protect consumers, authorities emphasize their commitment to tackling food-related crimes and ensuring public safety.
Consequently, consumers are urged to check food packaging for irregularities and report suspicious activities to local authorities.
