In a series of meticulously coordinated operations, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has successfully seized counterfeit and illicit goods valued at over R100 million. The operation, which spanned across various provinces in recent weeks, is being hailed as a significant step in the fight against the growing illegal trade that undermines both the economy and public safety.
The multi-disciplinary operation was spearheaded by the National and Provincial Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Units, with vital support from other law enforcement agencies, including Public Order Policing, Border Policing, the Rapid Rail Police Unit (RRPU), K9 Units, and the Department of Home Affairs (DHA). Additionally, crucial partnerships with the South African Revenue Service (SARS), the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS), and provincial drug and firearm units ensured the success of the takedowns. The operation also involved collaboration with Metropolitan Police, brand protection officers, and private security firms.
The extensive raids, which took place in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Western Cape, resulted in the confiscation of more than one million counterfeit and illicit items. Among the goods seized were counterfeit designer clothing, handbags, and accessories, as well as fake cellphone accessories, SIM cards, processed meat products, illicit cigarettes, automotive products, and medicines. There was also a significant seizure of agricultural stock and non-compliant electrical appliances.
In a high-profile operation outside the Cape Town Stadium during a recent Springbok match, counterfeit items bearing the Springboks’ trademark, alongside other well-known brand logos, were confiscated. This incident highlights the growing scale of counterfeit goods infiltrating public spaces and major events.
As part of the operation, four suspects were arrested. Two were detained in Gauteng for dealing in counterfeit goods, while another was arrested in KwaZulu-Natal for possession of illicit cigarettes. A fourth suspect was taken into custody for contravening the Agricultural Remedies Act.
Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk, the SAPS National Spokesperson, commented on the significance of the operation: “The illegal trade in counterfeit and illicit goods not only undermines the economy, but it also endangers public health and safety. We are committed to ensuring that criminals behind these operations face the full force of the law. These illegal goods often pose significant risks to consumers, whether it’s through unsafe medication, faulty electrical appliances, or counterfeit food products. Our work, alongside our partners, is pivotal in dismantling these criminal networks.”
The establishment of the National Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Unit in November 2023 reflects SAPS’s ongoing commitment to tackling the complex issue of counterfeit and illicit trade. This unit, along with the coordinated operations, aims to curb the proliferation of these dangerous goods, which often result in the erosion of legitimate businesses, infringement on intellectual property rights, and damage to South Africa's economy.
SAPS has made it clear that this is only the beginning of their continued efforts to address the illicit economy, with future operations already being planned to further disrupt these illegal networks.
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