ZACC Breaks Fake Sugar Ring: 3.6 Tonnes Of Counterfeit TONGAAT HULETT Seized In SOUTHLEA PARK
By Desire Tshuma
HARARE — A suspected counterfeit sugar operation has been uncovered in Southlea Park after the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission raided a house and seized more than 3.6 tonnes of sugar allegedly repackaged under a fake Tongaat Hulett brand.
Spiwe Mutandwa was arrested on Saturday evening following the raid. Investigators say the operation involved repackaging sugar into 2kg bags bearing counterfeit Tongaat Hulett labels.
A truck carrying the sugar consignment was also recovered, together with a weighing scale and packaging equipment believed to have been used in the suspected repackaging. ZACC said the truck, sugar and equipment had been seized and would be treated as exhibits as investigations continue.
Mutandwa is facing fraud charges as well as allegations of contravening Section 84(1)(b) of the Trade Marks Act [Chapter 26:04], which prohibits the forgery of registered trademarks. She is expected to appear before the Harare Magistrates’ Court on August 31, 2026.
The case has cast the spotlight on the dangerous trade in counterfeit consumer goods, particularly food products, where unsuspecting buyers may have no way of knowing whether a product has been handled, stored or packaged under acceptable standards.
Consumer protection authorities have repeatedly warned that counterfeit goods are more than a threat to legitimate businesses and brands. They can also expose consumers to safety and public-health risks, especially where food and other consumables are involved.
The Consumer Council of Zimbabwe has urged consumers to exercise greater caution when purchasing products. It advised the public to patronise reputable and registered retailers and to carefully scrutinise packaging before making purchases.
Consumers have also been encouraged to look out for suspicious labelling, spelling mistakes, tampered seals, unusual packaging and other inconsistencies that could indicate that a product is not genuine.
The Southlea Park seizure highlights the vulnerability of consumers who rely on familiar brand names when making purchasing decisions. Counterfeiters can exploit that trust by making imitation products appear authentic, potentially allowing substandard or improperly handled goods to enter the market.
ZACC has warned individuals involved in the illegal repackaging of consumable products that authorities will pursue such activities, while urging members of the public to remain vigilant.
Investigators are now expected to establish where the sugar originated, where the suspected counterfeit products were destined, and whether other individuals or businesses were linked to the alleged operation.
Mutandwa remains innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
