The Mpumalanga Counterfeit Task Team, in partnership with inspectors from the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, conducted a two-day National Honey Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Operation in the Ehlanzeni District Municipality.

The operation resulted in the seizure of counterfeit goods and the issuing of non-compliance notices.

According to Mpumalanga police spokesperson Colonel Mavela Masondo, the operation took place on May 13, when a search-and-seizure warrant was executed at seven shops in Mbombela and White River.

“The operation led to the confiscation of 320 items of counterfeit Mountain Honey syrup, with an estimated street value of R22 485. Packets of illicit cigarettes were also found abandoned in Komatipoort and Tonga. The team further visited 30 shops, some of which were issued notices for non-compliance with relevant regulations,” said Masondo.

Authorities say the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to clamp down on the distribution and sale of counterfeit and illicit goods in the province.

Masondo encouraged members of the public to report the sale or storage of counterfeit goods at their nearest police station or via Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Information can also be shared anonymously through the My SAPS app.