The Metro police confiscated counterfeit goods worth thousands from foreign-owned shops in the Johannesburg Central Business District (CBD) on 1 June.
The Metro pounced on shops along Delvers and Jeppe streets and closed-off the streets before they seized the goods. Both motorists and pedestrians were barred from using the streets as Metro police officers redirected the traffic.
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According to Superintendent Wayne Minnaar, the spokesperson for the Metro police in Johannesburg, this was a routine operation. Minnaar could not say how many shops were targeted on the day but confirmed that counterfeit goods worth thousands were indeed confiscated. The shops are popularly known for selling brands such as Levi’s, Adidas, Nike and other famous and expensive brands.
“We can confirm that counterfeit goods were confiscated on the day by our officers working together with the brand manager,” said Minnaar.
“The confiscated goods were taken to the warehouse. This is an ongoing routine operation and we are targeting a variety of shops in the CBD.”
Minnaar has warned other dealers not to sell counterfeit goods and said the law will take its course and their goods will be seized. “When we discover that you are selling counterfeit goods we are going to remove everything from your shop.
“So, we urge shop owners to refrain from this to avoid their goods being confiscated,” he said.
Minnaar said they are working with the South African Revenue Services and the brand managers to help identify if the goods are authentic.
Details: Wayne Minnaar 082 559 3882.
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