In a major operation conducted in Rustenburg, North West, police have successfully seized counterfeit goods with an estimated value of over R8 million.
The operation resulted in the arrest of two suspects on Thursday. The seized counterfeit items included clothing, shoes, caps, and bags. In addition to the goods, authorities also confiscated over R30,000 in cash.
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The suspects will face charges related to the Counterfeit Goods Act, and one of them will face an additional charge for contravening the Immigration Act.
The operation was carried out by an integrated team comprising members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) from various specialized units, officials from the South African Revenue Services (SARS), Customs, Brand Protectors, and security officials.
According to police spokesperson Amanda Van Wyk, the team acted on information obtained regarding several shops in Rustenburg suspected of dealing in counterfeit goods.
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A search and seizure warrant was executed, leading to the discovery and confiscation of various counterfeit items, including clothing apparel, shoes, caps, and bags.
Since its establishment in November last year, the SAPS’ National Counterfeit Goods unit, in collaboration with its crime-fighting partners, has conducted multiple takedown operations across the country.
These operations have resulted in the seizure of over R200 million worth of counterfeit goods and over R1 million in cash.
