The police have announced the seizure of counterfeit and illicit goods worth more than R17 million, following a series of coordinated nationwide operations carried out in April 2026.
The operation was led by the South African Police Service (SAPS) Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Units, working with partner law enforcement agencies, and involved 33 raids across the Free State, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga and the Western Cape.
Police Spokesperson Lt Col Amanda van Wyk said the police are continuing efforts to stop the sale of fake goods, which harm consumers, damage businesses, and break the law.
“These operations resulted in the seizure of large quantities of counterfeit and illicit goods, including branded clothing, sports apparel, cellphone accessories, toys, pharmaceuticals, consumables, as well as counterfeit liquor and cigarettes”, van Wyk said.
“Police arrested sixteen suspects in total, of whom nine were arrested for contravening the Immigration Act, five for contravening the Counterfeit Goods Act, and two for contravening the Liquor Act”.
She also urged members of the public to think twice before buying counterfeit goods, warning that they are often unsafe, unregulated, and illegal.
“These products are often manufactured and distributed outside regulated systems, with no regard for quality standards, safety, or lawful trade practices.
“Legitimate manufacturers and retailers lose market share to illegal traders, leading to reduced production and job losses. Counterfeit goods infringe on the intellectual property rights of legitimate brand owners”.
The police also thanked all partner departments, law enforcement agencies, and stakeholders for their continued support in fighting the illegal trade in counterfeit and illicit goods across the country.
mthobisi.nozulela@iol.co.za
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