By Staff Reporter
PRETORIA : The crackdown on the trade of counterfeit and illicit goods, the South African Police Service (SAPS) recently announced the seizure of over R156 million worth of fake products during a series of nationwide operations. These operations were spearheaded by the National Counterfeit and Illicit Goods unit, in collaboration with various law enforcement and regulatory agencies, including Public Order Policing (POP) and the South African Revenue Services (SARS) Customs and Enforcement team.
Over the last three weeks, the integrated unit executed a number of search-and-seizure warrants under the Counterfeit Goods Act 37 of 1997 and the Customs and Excise Act. Targeted locations included various shops across Marabastad, Mokopane, Mbombela, Bela Bela, Mookghopong, and Modimolle.
During these operations, authorities confiscated an astounding array of more than 23,000 counterfeit items imitating high-end designer brands. The haul included clothing, shoes, bags, caps, watches, as well as counterfeit jewellery, sunglasses, perfumes, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Notably, some of these counterfeit sports apparel items bore the trademark of the Springboks, which were seized outside notable venues, such as Mbombela Stadium and Loftus Stadium, during recent matches.
The operations also targeted illicit cigarettes, with over R50,000 worth of contraband confiscated. The Counterfeit Goods Act is designed to combat the trade in fake products by safeguarding trademarks, copyrights, and the rights of mark owners against the unauthorized use of their intellectual property.
Lt Col Amanda van Wyk emphasized the commitment of SAPS in its ongoing battle against the illegal trade in counterfeit goods, stating, “Our goal is to protect consumers, support legitimate businesses, and maintain the integrity of South Africa’s economy. We will continue to take decisive action against those who engage in the illicit trade of counterfeit goods.”
With these recent operations, SAPS has reaffirmed its dedication to enhancing consumer protection and ensuring a fair marketplace for all South Africans.
