Cops seize counterfeit goods worth R98m countrywide, kingpins nabbed

There is an increase in counterfeit goods in South Africa. Contravening the South African law has become a habit for some people however the SAPS and its partners continue to fight the illicit trade in counterfeit and contraband goods relentlessly.

During a three-week period, the National Counterfeit Goods Unit conducted multiple intelligence-driven takedown operations across the country, seizing counterfeit goods worth R94 million and arresting five foreign Nationals.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk The teams comprised of various internal and external stakeholders that included, among others; SAPS members from various specialised units, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI – “Hawks”), Department of Home Affairs, South African Revenue Services (SARS), Traffic, Metro Police Departments and Brand Protectors as well as force multipliers such as private security companies.

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Their collaboration yielded positive results which led to counterfeit goods seizure as well as the alleged culprit’s apprehension.

“On the 16 August 2024, counterfeit clothing and sneakers worth over R37 million were found in a self-storage facility in Doornfontein (Gauteng) and seized, 25 August 2024, counterfeit goods that included sneakers, clothing, watches and backpacks worth more than R41 million were seized at a shopping centre in Bellville (Western Cape), “29 August 2024, counterfeit sanitary pads, deodorants and other consumables worth over R4.8 million were seized at a self-storage facility in Mayfair, Johannesburg (Gauteng), 29 August 2024, counterfeit sanitary pads, hair extensions, toothbrushes and other consumables worth over R9.3 million were seized at a small holding in Bredell, Kempton
Park (Gauteng).

The team also seized branded packaging, labels, machinery and other equipment used to manufacture counterfeit goods.

“Five Malawian nationals were also arrested for the contravention of both the Counterfeit Goods Act and the Immigration Act, 02 September 2024, counterfeit shoe polish, deodorant, toothbrushes and other consumables worth over R2 million were seized at a self-storage facility in Bonaero Park, Benoni (Gauteng),” said van Wyk.

Van Wyk further added that a continuing fight will be conducted by the police against the illicit trade in counterfeit goods, protecting legitimate businesses and consumers who are subject to substandard products posing health and safety risks.