Metro Police officers uncovered a forgery operation being run from a backyard printing shop and internet café in Gugulethu on Tuesday August 6.
The officers, who were following up on information about suspected false motor vehicle license discs being issued, seized a number of computers, documents and other items, including templates for medical certificates, identity documents, passports and documentation for asylum seekers and even a City of Cape Town payslip.
A 36-year-old suspect was arrested and detained at Gugulethu police station.
Mayoral committee member for safety and security, JP Smith, said: “This is a very disturbing case. Who knows how many fake documents have been produced by this operation, and how wide the net goes? Fraud and forgery are often forgotten, as they are not contact crimes, but they have the potential to pose a serious threat to the security and well-being of communities, and the country as a whole.”