JOHANNESBURG - Police seized counterfeit goods worth more than R160 million during multiple takedown operations in different parts of the country this week.
The South African Police Service, in collaboration with its crime-fighting partners, aimed to dismantle criminal networks involved in the illegal trade in counterfeit and illicit goods.
In Bellville, a multi-agency task force confiscated over 130 000 fake items, including branded clothing, sports apparel, sneakers, caps, sunglasses and watches worth more than R117 million.
In Gauteng, authorities shut down a hidden counterfeit factory in Johannesburg’s CBD.
They seized goods and printing machines valued at R28 million.
In KwaZulu-Natal, a large shipment of fake cigarettes worth over R15-million was also taken.
Police said the crackdown aims to send a clear message that counterfeit trade won’t be tolerated.
They added that the illegal trade in counterfeit goods not only undermines the economy of South Africa, but also threatens consumer health and safety, infringes on intellectual property rights, and erodes legitimate businesses.
The operations form part of ongoing national efforts to address the illegal trade in counterfeit and illicit goods in the country.