On 17 February, the Gauteng Counterfeit Unit, working alongside multiple law enforcement agencies, carried out a coordinated operation in Johannesburg Central aimed at cracking down on counterfeit, contraband and other illicit goods.
In a statement, SAPS confirmed that the operation led to the confiscation of 115 294 counterfeit clothing and footwear items, with an estimated value of about R98 million. Authorities also seized R4 396 in cash during the operation.
“The operation involved officers and members from Gauteng Counterfeit Unit,Public Order Police (Springs, Sedibeng, Pretoria), Border Police (City Deep), Commercial Crime, Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), Brand Protectors, South African Revenue Service(SARS) Customs, demonstrating a collaborative effort to combat illicit trade,” SAPS said.
The collaborative effort underscores authorities’ determination to combat illicit trade, which poses significant risks to consumers, undermines legitimate businesses and deprives the state of much-needed revenue.
Gauteng police reaffirmed their commitment to protecting both consumers and lawful traders, indicating that similar operations will continue across the province as part of ongoing efforts to disrupt and dismantle networks involved in counterfeit and contraband goods.
