In a statement on Thursday, the South African Police Service (SAPS) said it, along with its crime fighting partners, remain relentless in efforts to disrupt and dislodge illicit trade in counterfeit and contraband goods.

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), 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.

On 16 August 2024, police found and seized counterfeit clothing and sneakers worth over R37 million in a self-storage facility in Gauteng’s Doornfontein.

On 25 August, police also seized counterfeit goods that included sneakers, clothing, watches and backpacks worth more than R41 million at a shopping centre in Bellville, Western Cape.

“On 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.

“On the same day, 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,” the statement read.

Furthermore, on 2 September 2024, police seized counterfeit shoe polish, deodorant, toothbrushes and other consumables worth over R2 million at a self-storage facility in Bonaero Park, Benoni.

“Police will continue to combat the illicit trade in counterfeit goods, protecting legitimate businesses and consumers who are subjected to substandard products that pose health and safety risks,” the SAPS said.

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Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk said over 7000 counterfeit items valued at around R6.6-million were seized.

“These items imitating well-known brands included shoes, clothing, handbags, caps, perfumes, cosmetics and backpacks.”

“Police also seized sewing machines, an overlocker, an embossing machine, a hot press and a large quantity of labels of well-known brands. This is the biggest counterfeit manufacturing plant bust in the past year,” she said.

Van Wyk said the bust was a concerted effort to disrupt and dislodge the illicit trade in counterfeit goods.

“The team comprised of members of South African Police Service, officials from the South African Revenue Services (SARS), Gauteng Traffic, Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS), Brand Protectors, Crime Prevention wardens and private security.” Less than a week ago, the team seized counterfeit goods worth R5.8-million in similar takedown operation in the Johannesburg CBD.

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