"More than 86 000 counterfeit items were confiscated last week."""
Lentswe, Klerksdorp - The South African Police Service (SAPS) have delivered a significant blow to the illegal trade of counterfeit goods in the North West, seizing items valued at more than R260 million during a week-long integrated operation. The coordinated efforts, which took place between September 15 and 25, targeted more than 100 shops across various districts in the province. Targeted areas included major towns such as Coligny, Klerksdorp, Lichtenburg, Mafikeng, Potchefstroom, Rustenburg, Ventersdorp, and Zeerust. In a statement released by SAPS, authorities confirmed the confiscation of over 86 000 counterfeit items. The seizure included a wide range of goods, such as designer branded clothing, sports apparel and footwear, bags and caps, toys and consumables.
In addition to apparel, the operations also uncovered illegal products, including counterfeit medicine valued at more than R45 000, along with illicit cigarettes and liquor.
The extensive operations were spearheaded by the SAPS National Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Unit, with support from Public Order Policing and Crime Prevention Units in the North West. Crucial assistance was also provided by the South African Revenue Service (SARS) Customs Division and private brand protectors.
Lt Col Amanda van Wyk said the teams acted under the authority of the Counterfeit Goods Act, 1997, which grants customs officials and brand protectors the authority to identify, verify, and detain illicit products that violate intellectual property rights.
These seizures form part of ongoing national efforts to disrupt organized criminal networks, protect legitimate South African businesses, and safeguard consumers from the potentially harmful quality of counterfeit products, said Van Wyk.
