In a significant crackdown on the illegal trade in counterfeit goods, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has seized merchandise valued at more than R19 million during targeted operations in Bloemfontein. Six foreign nationals were arrested in connection with the raids.
The two-day operation, conducted earlier this week, was spearheaded by the National Counterfeit Goods Unit, working in collaboration with Public Order Policing (POP) Bloemfontein, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) Customs division, brand protectors, and private security companies.
Search and seizure warrants were executed at multiple shops in the Bloemfontein central business district under the provisions of the Customs and Excise Act.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk, national SAPS spokesperson, “More than 13,000 counterfeit items — including fake luxury brand clothing, shoes, bags, and jewellery — were confiscated over the course of the operation.”
“These seizures form part of SAPS’ ongoing efforts to disrupt and dismantle the illegal trade in counterfeit and illicit goods**, which harms both consumers and legitimate businesses,” she said. “This illegal economy undermines the South African economy, and we will continue to act decisively against those involved.”
The arrested individuals are all foreign nationals, detained for contravening the Immigration Act. One suspect faces an additional charge of resisting arrest.
Lieutenant Colonel Van Wyk confirmed that investigations are ongoing and that further operations of a similar nature are expected to follow in other provinces. “We urge business owners to comply with South African laws and refrain from trading in counterfeit goods, as the consequences are severe.”
The SAPS has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the law, protecting intellectual property rights, and maintaining the integrity of South Africa’s formal economy.
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