KEY POINTS
- Gauteng police seized counterfeit goods worth R5.9 million ($321,870) in Johannesburg.
- The operation targeted shops dealing in counterfeit and illicit products.
- Police vow to continue raids until illegal trade is eradicated.
Gauteng police have intensified their crackdown on counterfeit goods, seizing merchandise worth over R5.9 million ($321,870) during a major raid in Johannesburg Central.
On March 11, various law enforcement agencies formed a task force for the operation that included personnel from Border Policing, Public Order Policing, Gauteng Traffic Wardens, Counterfeit Unit, and brand protectors.
The raid yielded counterfeit items, which included fake clothing, shoes, jewelry, illicit cigarettes, and counterfeit alcohol, thus further damaging the illegal trade market.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo, spokesperson for the Office of the Provincial Commissioner Gauteng, the raid specifically targeted shops known for dealing in counterfeit and illicit products.
“This operation is part of our ongoing efforts to eliminate the trade in counterfeit and illicit goods within Gauteng,” Masondo said. “We will continue these operations as long as such illegal activities persist.”
Police intensify fight against counterfeit goods in Gauteng
The latest raid represents an extended initiative undertaken by Gauteng police to combat counterfeit trade activities in specific parts of the province.
The National Counterfeit Goods Unit action in Johannesburg’s Central Business District confiscated goods worth more than R66 million ($3.6 million) in November 2024.
The crackdown included counterfeit fashion items, accessories, and other contraband products.
The operations aim to dismantle networks that supply and distribute counterfeit goods. The harmful products rob society of value and simultaneously endanger the public.
“These operations are critical in protecting both the economy and the public. Counterfeit goods, especially illicit cigarettes and alcohol, pose serious health risks. We urge consumers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities,” Masondo added.
Authorities commit to ongoing raids to curb illegal trade
Masondo confirmed that law enforcement will not relent in their efforts to tackle the illegal trade of counterfeit and contraband products.
According to IOL, he stressed that the raids will continue until such criminal activities are completely eradicated from Gauteng.
“These operations will continue throughout Gauteng as long as there are still shops and people dealing in illicit and counterfeit goods,” he said.
Masondo urged community members and business owners to assist police efforts through counterfeit activity reports, as their support ensures the success of these anti-diversion operations.
The police’s message is clear: they will not tolerate the sale of counterfeit goods and will take swift action against those involved in such illegal trade.
For now, Gauteng residents can expect heightened security efforts as law enforcement continues its mission to rid the province of counterfeit products and protect legitimate businesses.
