HARARE – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has arrested 46 suspects following a raid on an illegal alcohol manufacturing operation allegedly producing illicit alcoholic beverages using ethanol in Harare.

The suspects include 42 Zimbabwean nationals and four foreign nationals. Investigations indicate that the brewery was using ethanol that had not been approved by the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ), raising serious public health and safety concerns.

ZRP National Spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirmed the arrests and said the suspects are facing a range of charges, including contravening regulations governing the manufacture of alcoholic beverages and other related offences.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of 46 suspects in connection with the illegal manufacture of alcoholic beverages using ethanol. Investigations are continuing and appropriate charges are being preferred against the suspects, said Commissioner Nyathi.

The operation comes amid growing concerns over the proliferation of illicit brews and substance abuse across the country. Authorities have warned that unregulated alcoholic products pose significant health risks to consumers due to the use of unsafe and unapproved ingredients.

Zimbabwe Liquor Licensing Board Secretary General, Precious Kusotera, recently called for stronger collaboration between enforcement agencies, industry stakeholders and communities in the fight against illegal alcohol production and substance abuse.

"We must help each other on enforcement efforts to combat substance abuse and the production and distribution of illicit brews. Protecting consumers and promoting responsible alcohol consumption requires collective action from all sectors of society," said Kusotera.

Authorities have urged members of the public to report suspicious alcohol manufacturing and distribution activities as efforts to curb illegal alcohol production continue nationwide.

The ZRP has reiterated its commitment to enforcing liquor manufacturing regulations and ensuring that all alcoholic products available on the market meet the required safety and regulatory standards.