Counterfeit Springboks merchandise worth R1.5m seized in Joburg

A Johannesburg CBD storage facility has been raided ahead of the Springboks’ upcoming match against New Zealand, with police seizing more than 1 700 counterfeit sports items worth over R1.5 million.

The operation was led by SAPS’ National Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Unit after intelligence pointed investigators to the facility this week.

Among the seized goods were counterfeit sports clothing and footwear carrying several well-known brands, including Springboks-branded merchandise.

#sapsHQ [COUNTERFEIT GOODS AND MANUFACTURING EQUIPMENT WORTH MORE THAN R1.5 MILLION SEIZED FROM JHB CBD STORAGE FACILITY AHEAD OF SPRINGBOKS-NEW ZEALAND RUGBY MATCH]

The South African Police Service (SAPS), together with other law enforcement agencies and stakeholders, has… pic.twitter.com/OjIBKM080q

SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) September 5, 2026

The timing of the operation comes as rugby supporters prepare for the highly anticipated encounter, with demand for team merchandise expected to rise.

Equipment found inside storage facility

The multi-disciplinary team included the Gauteng Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Unit, Public Order Policing, the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department, SARS Customs and brand protection representatives.

Search-and-seizure warrants were used during the operation.

Police also found equipment and materials allegedly linked to the production and distribution of counterfeit merchandise. These included counterfeit labels and stickers, an embossing machine and silkscreen plates.

For shoppers, the raid highlights the importance of checking where team merchandise comes from, particularly when popular sporting events drive demand. SAPS has urged supporters to buy merchandise from legitimate and authorised retailers.

South Africa’s Counterfeit Goods Act prohibits dealing in counterfeit goods and provides for action against counterfeiters.

SAPS shared details of the Johannesburg raid on social media as preparations for the rugby match gather momentum.

The seizure forms part of wider police efforts to disrupt networks involved in the manufacture, distribution and sale of counterfeit and illicit goods.