Fake goods confiscated in W Cape raid

Photo by Eric Prouzet on Unsplash

The law enforcement agencies’ operation targeted outlets selling and distributing counterfeit goods within the province.

The multidisciplinary team - comprising members of the Western Cape Essential Infrastructure Task Team, the National Counterfeit Unit, Public Order Policing (POPS) Western Cape, the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS), Customs officials and Brand Protectors - conducted inspections at identified business premises in Bellville, where suspected counterfeit goods were being sold.

During the operation, a large consignment of counterfeit clothing, footwear and accessories, bearing the trademarks of well-known international brands, was seized. The total estimated value of the confiscated goods is approximately R8m.

While no arrests were effected during the operation, investigations are continuing to trace the supply network and determine the origin of the illicit goods.

The Western Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General (Adv.) Thembisile Patekile, commended the collaborative effort, emphasising that the sale of counterfeit products undermines legitimate business operations, deprives the State of revenue, and often supports organised criminal networks.

“The SAPS will continue to work closely with enforcement agencies and brand representatives to remove counterfeit products from circulation and to protect the rights of consumers and legitimate traders,” said Patekile.

Members of the public are urged to report the sale of suspected counterfeit goods to their nearest police station or through the SAPS Crime Stop number -- 08600 10111