GAUTENG – The Gauteng Counterfeit Unit has embarked on various operations in efforts to clamp down on the trade of illicit goods
The unit investigates and raids businesses to seize counterfeit, contraband, and illicit goods, working with brand protectors, commercial crime units, and other law enforcement.
Its activities are aimed at protecting consumers and businesses from the risks associated with fake products and illegal trade.
Multi-disciplinary operations have been carried out in different districts including Sedibeng District and Ekurhuleni Districts, targeting counterfeit, contraband, and illicit goods worth over R1.3m. The operation was carried out in collaboration with brand protectors.
Police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko says operations conducted in various areas resulted in a total of 2,662 counterfeit goods seized.
“Six shops were visited at Vanderbijlpark, on October 17 wherein 850 counterfeit clothing and accessories items were seized. In Benoni five shops were visited on October 20, with police seizing 355 counterfeit cell phone accessories, 139 counterfeit toys, and 77 counterfeit consumables.”
A second round of operations was carried out last week in Vereeniging and Vanderbijlpark.
Sibeko says, “In Vanderbijlpark, 10 shops were inspected with police seizing 44 counterfeit cell phone accessories and 432 counterfeit consumables on October 21. On October 23, 12 shops were visited in Vereeniging with members seizing 678 counterfeit consumables and 87 counterfeit clothing and accessories.”
Sibeko emphasises that the operations demonstrate the Gauteng Counterfeit Unit’s commitment to combating counterfeit goods in the province.
