Story by Farai Gwaze
A foreign-owned company operating in the Harare Central Business District has been flagged for selling counterfeit vehicle maintenance products, including brake fluid, with police seizing thousands of boxes containing the products this Tuesday.
According to a motor products expert, the fake products meant to address regular vehicle maintenance which were seized this Tuesday, are not suitable for any use in motor vehicles.
“The fake one which is not good for any use, has got a seal here because it evaporates. The original does not have a seal. If you look at the contents, they are different. The original brake fluid is a bit colorless and the counterfeit is yellow. You can put your finger to test, the original is a bit warm, while the counterfeit is cold,” motor products expert, Peisai Mhlanga said.
Zimbabwe Republic Police national spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the seizure, further warning business operators who are trading in counterfeit products.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police has unearthed a scam where a foreign-owned company operating along Harare Street, in the Harare CBD, is involved in the sale of counterfeit vehicle maintenance products,” he said.
“These products include fake brake fluid and silicone materials to repair vehicles… This is a national issue in terms of the security of the country, where we are grappling with road traffic accidents. Some of these accidents are caused by brake failures and defective vehicle parts.
“We want to send out a strong message to any business operator who will try to take advantage of the country, to bring in fake or counterfeit products that the law will take its course without fear or favour.”
The ZRP is on the drive to weed out business operators who are dealing in counterfeit products, imploring the public to engage reputable suppliers when making purchases.
