This week, during our usual early morning price surveys, we stumbled upon something rather disturbing. In the bustling vending area in front of OK Mbare, we noticed a young man tending a small fire. On closer inspection, it became apparent that he was surrounded by an assortment of alcohol bottles – familiar brands such as Jägermeister, Two Keys, Southern Comfort, Strettons, and Gordon’s London Dry Gin. What was odd was that he seemed to be meticulously filling these bottles with what appeared to be cane spirit and a concoction of additives, possibly food colouring. He would then carefully re-seal the bottles and apply what looked like fresh labels, using the fire to help the adhesive stick properly. It was clear: this was a counterfeit alcohol operation in full swing.

As a team who do not drink alcohol, we had not given much thought to the fake alcohol market. However, seeing it with our own eyes prompted us to dig deeper. The issue, it turns out, is well-documented, with both local and international media outlets reporting on the prevalence of lucrative fake booze factories, particularly around Mbare. This is not simply a case of illicit alcohol, where buyers knowingly purchase unbranded, low-quality spirits. This is a far more sophisticated and deceptive enterprise.

How the Fake Alcohol Racket Works

These counterfeit alcohol merchants operate within a well-structured network. They have suppliers who provide them with cane spirit, cheap unbranded versions of whiskey, gin, brandy, and vodka. They also utilise food colouring, other unspecified additives, and high-quality imitation labels. Furthermore, they rely on garbage collectors to source discarded bottles and caps in good condition. According to sources familiar with the practice, these forgers often purchase genuine bottles of the original product as a benchmark, almost as a starting point. This is considered an investment, providing a sample for comparison.

The counterfeiters often make use of the contents of the original bottle. Apparently, it is difficult to replicate the precise taste, smell, and feel of certain brands, like Strettons. They carefully dilute a genuine bottle, expanding it into perhaps four or five counterfeit bottles. Then, they top up with cane spirit and their concoction of additives. The sealing and labelling are the final steps in this deceptive manufacturing process.

The reason we had not noticed this before is that this “manufacturing” usually takes place discreetly in the flats around Mbare Musika, away from prying eyes.

How to Spot Fake Alcohol and Protect Yourself

Let us be blunt: if you are buying alcohol from the streets, you are almost certainly purchasing fake alcohol. If you are, please stop immediately. If you want to be sure you are buying the real thing, purchase from reputable distributors and established liquor stores. At the very least, if you are being duped, you should be getting a higher-quality fake made in cleaner conditions.

If you are buying alcohol on the streets, particularly in areas like Mbare, be extra vigilant. Here are some telltale signs to watch out for:

• Mismatched Lids: Counterfeiters often struggle to source the correct lids for each brand, so they may use generic or mismatched seals. This should raise a red flag.
• Seal Integrity: Examine the seal to ensure it is properly attached and that its colour matches the lid. Genuine seals are typically clean and unblemished. Recycled lids often have dents, teeth marks, or are visibly soiled.
• Visual Inspection:
  • Texture and Colour: Forgers try to match the colour of the original product, but they often fail. Compare the colour of the alcohol with what you know to be the correct shade.
  • Sediment: Look for sediment at the top or bottom of the bottle, which indicates a potential fake.
• Label Quality: Labels are often a giveaway. Original brands have clean, high-quality labels unique to each brand. Counterfeiters often use generic, thick labels with smudged, low-quality fonts and images. Soiled labels are another sign.
• Price: Be wary of prices that are significantly lower than what you would normally pay. Legitimate stores rarely offer substantial discounts because profit margins are tight.

The Dangers of Fake Alcohol

The dangers of consuming counterfeit alcohol are significant. These products may contain harmful additives, including methanol, which can cause blindness, organ damage, or even death. It is simply not worth the risk.

Conclusion

The fake alcohol market in Harare is a serious issue that poses a real threat to public health. By being aware of the telltale signs and purchasing from reputable sources, you can protect yourself from becoming a victim of this dangerous scam. Stay vigilant and remember, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.

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FAQs

Q: Where is fake alcohol most commonly sold in Harare?

A: Fake alcohol is prevalent in areas like Mbare, particularly near OK Mbare and surrounding stalls, as well as in the flats around Mbare Musika.

Q: What are the main ingredients used in counterfeit alcohol?

A: The main ingredients are typically cane spirit, cheap unbranded spirits, food colouring, and other unspecified additives.

Q: Is it illegal to sell fake alcohol?

A: Yes, selling counterfeit alcohol is illegal and carries significant penalties.

Q: How can I report someone selling fake alcohol?

A: You can report suspected counterfeit alcohol sales to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) or the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ).

Q: What are the long-term health effects of drinking fake alcohol?

A: Long-term consumption of fake alcohol can lead to various health problems, including liver damage, kidney failure, blindness, and neurological issues.