The South African Police Service (SAPS) and its crime-fighting partners seized counterfeit and illicit goods worth over R30 million during nationwide operations.
Over the past two weeks, multidisciplinary teams led by the national and provincial Counterfeit, Contraband and Illicit Goods Units executed search and seizure warrants in KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, and Western Cape.
The raids targeted shops and storage facilities suspected of storing illegal products.
Hundreds of Thousands of Illegal Items Confiscated
Police confiscated more than 800 000 counterfeit and illicit items, including:
- Clothing and footwear
- Pharmaceuticals and tobacco products
- Toys and non-compliant electronics
- Food items, cell phone accessories, insecticides, and a gambling machine
They also seized embroidery machines, silk-screen printing machines, labels, and packaging materials used to produce and package fake goods.
During the operations, KwaZulu-Natal police arrested five suspects, including one for tobacco violations, three for immigration offences, and one for illegal gambling equipment.
Counterfeit Goods Threaten Consumers and the Economy
The Counterfeit, Contraband and Illicit Goods Units received crucial support from internal role players, law enforcement agencies, and regulatory partners.
Police warned that counterfeit and illicit goods pose serious risks to consumers, legitimate businesses, and South Africa’s economy.
These products often bypass regulated systems, ignoring quality, safety, and lawful trade practices.
Legitimate manufacturers and retailers lose market share to illegal traders, reducing production and causing unemployment.
