By Kopano Dibakwane
A 30-year-old farmer has been arrested in Mpumalanga for allegedly repackaging expired and rotten food for sale to unsuspecting consumers.
The shocking discovery was reportedly made during an operation by the Hawks Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit, in collaboration with the Charl Cillier SAPS(South African Police Service),and Health Inspectors at Govan Mbeki Local Municipality.
Speaking on behalf of Mpumalanga SAPS, Lt-Col Magonseni Nkosi said information was received from a reliable source about a farmer who allegedly packed rotten food delivered to retail shops for human consumption.
The farmer reportedly collects expired food from chain stores and other distributors under the ‘false pretence’ that the food will be fed to his domestic animals. Lt-Col Nkosi said law enforcement officials discovered two warehouses which were packed with the said rotten food.
“ Four cold rooms filled with expired canned products, rotten red meat, and chicken meat were found. About 1000 crates were found full-loaded with expired dairy products, including cheese products,” said Lt-Col Nkosi.
It was also reported that additional rotten meat was found loaded in a bakkie. Lt-Col Nkosi said an intense investigation will be conducted on a truck fitted with a cold room, and two other bakkies.
“ A total of seven freezers were f inound in the warehouses with repackaged wheat, flower, and maize meal. Equipment used for vacuuming, scales, and plastic sealers were found on the scene. The recovered items include stickers and pricing machines, which are believed to be used during repackaging,” said Lt-Col Nkosi.
“ It is a massive blow to the packager as these products were destined for unsuspecting end users. Food so packaged poses a huge risk to communities,” said Head of the Hawks in Mpumalanga, Major-General Nico Gerber.
