WSTA cracks down on fake booze
A new video has also been launched, which explains how to report and bring to justice the modern-day moonshiners whose “hooky hooch” can threaten people’s lives.
The aim is to make the public aware of fake alcohol and the effects it can have on drinkers’ health as well as highlighting how fakers put lives at risk with dodgy alcohol factories.
The WSTA and Crimestoppers have teamed up to provide a dedicated confidential alcohol fraud line for members of the public to call or report online if they have bought illegal booze or suspect it is being sold. The number is 0800 234 6388.
Information can be given anonymously and will help the authorities crack down on the criminals who are selling fake booze.
Toxic chemicals
Producers of fake products are not just cheating the system, their alcohol can contain a cocktail of dangerously toxic chemicals.
The side effects from illicit or counterfeit alcohol can leave drinkers bed bound for days, suffering blackouts, blurred vision and even short-term sight loss.
So far, reports to the alcohol fraud line have uncovered a number of independent stores selling alcohol under the counter without a licence, smugglers bring alcohol and drugs into the UK, criminals pedalling fake alcohol brands, brothels trading booze without a licence and fake booze being sold in social clubs.
Some fake booze has been found to contain a cocktail of anti-freeze, nail varnish remover, cleaning fluid and industrial spirits, among other things.
These toxic products are significantly cheaper than ethanol and can increase the strength of the drink, but are a serious danger to health.
Black market
The problem is significant says the WSTA, as shown by the HMRC seizing 50m litres of illicit alcohol in the UK.
WSTA chief executive Miles Beale said: “The sale of illicit alcohol puts lives at risk and allows criminals to profit while costing the UK more than £1bn each year according to HMRC.
“Working with Crimestoppers, the WSTA is determined to help clean up the black market for counterfeit alcohol, and to spread the word we have put together a new video explaining how to spot fake booze.
“Although most alcohol retailers are legitimate, we urge the public not to take a risk to save a few quid and to report anything they suspect is fake alcohol to the Crimestoppers alcohol fraud line.”
