Gauteng police seize counterfeit goods worth R145 590

Gauteng police have seized more than 1 300 counterfeit and illicit items with an estimated combined value of R145 590 during separate operations targeting illegal goods in Ekurhuleni.

The operations took place in Edenvale and Benoni between Tuesday, 8 September and Wednesday, 9 September, with police focusing on businesses suspected of trading in counterfeit and illicit products.

The South African Police Service said the operations were conducted by the Gauteng Counterfeit Unit with support from brand protection representatives, resulting in the seizure of goods ranging from counterfeit clothing and toys to illicit pharmaceuticals and other products.

The first operation was conducted in Edenvale on Tuesday, 8 September, when members of the Gauteng Counterfeit Unit, assisted by a Brand Protector, visited eight shops.

Police seized 1 337 items with an estimated value of R106 590.

Among the goods recovered were 662 counterfeit consumable products valued at R7 320, 101 counterfeit textile items worth R45 000 and 54 counterfeit toys estimated at R30 150.

A further 15 counterfeit cellphone accessories, valued at R15 000, were also seized.

The operation also uncovered products classified as illicit goods, including 272 items of illicit poison valued at R1 360, five illicit honey products worth R400 and 228 illicit pharmaceutical products estimated at R9 120.

A second operation followed in Benoni the next day.

On Wednesday, 9 September, the Gauteng Counterfeit Unit worked alongside Brand Protectors to conduct a search-and-seizure operation at a business premises.

A total of 31 counterfeit wheelbarrows, valued at approximately R39 000, were recovered.

No arrests were made during the operation. SAPS said a Section 9 notice will be served in connection with the seized goods.

Taken together, the two operations resulted in 1 368 counterfeit and illicit items being seized, with an estimated value of R145 590.

While the Edenvale operation accounted for the majority of the items, the Benoni seizure added another R39 000 worth of counterfeit products to the overall haul.

SAPS has encouraged members of the public to report suspected criminal activity involving counterfeit and illicit goods to police or the relevant authorities.

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Source: SAPS