KEY POINTS
- Hawks seize over R1 million ($55,209) in counterfeit goods in Johannesburg.
- 31 illegal immigrants were apprehended during the operation.
- Authorities continue to investigate the network behind the counterfeit distribution.
In a major operation, the Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation (SCCI) team, along with various police units, dismantled a distribution network of counterfeit goods in Johannesburg on Friday.
The team seized counterfeit Hart ports valued at over R1 million ($55,209). This was during a coordinated search of two locations: a warehouse in Crown Mines and the Dragon City mall.
The intelligence that led to this operation was gathered on February 27, 2025, when SCCI received a tip-off regarding suspected counterfeit activities in Johannesburg.
The Hawks followed legal protocols and secured a search warrant on March 12, 2025.
Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Singo, the Hawks spokesperson, confirmed that the counterfeit goods were confiscated for further investigation. He also reported the discovery of 31 illegal immigrants at one of the warehouses.
Although no arrests have been made concerning the counterfeit goods, authorities have initiated criminal proceedings against the warehouse owners.
“The dual approach of this operation reflects our commitment to combating commercial crime while addressing the human element associated with illegal activities,” Singo said.
Counterfeit hart ports seizure highlights Hawks’ zero-tolerance policy
The Hawks function with determination to eliminate counterfeit operations because they endanger business legitimacy and consumer safety.
This operation is part of a wider effort to clamp down on commercial crime and enforce legal standards for trade in South Africa.
The seizure of these counterfeit goods sends a strong message about the Hawks’ commitment to protecting the market from illegal and dangerous products.
Singo emphasized that this is just the beginning, as the Hawks continue to investigate the network behind the counterfeit operation.
According to IOL, authorities are working to trace and shut down other potential illegal trade routes.
Hawks take action against illegal immigration and criminal networks
The operation also highlighted the ongoing issue of illegal immigration.
The 31 individuals apprehended during the raid were undocumented and have been handed over to immigration authorities.
While the focus was on counterfeit goods, the Hawks are also addressing the broader criminal network connected to these illegal activities.
By tackling illegal immigration, the operation sends a message that authorities are addressing multiple layers of crime simultaneously.
The Hawks’ efforts continue to target criminal networks that exploit the vulnerabilities in the system. This helps in ensuring that law enforcement remains proactive in protecting South African consumers and businesses.
