VEREENIGING – Law enforcement has sent a clear message to fraudsters after a massive raid in Vereeniging uncovered a stash of counterfeit luxury goods worth a staggering R2.2m.
During a joint police operation on February 5, law enforcement agencies confiscated more than 3 400 fake items. The goods included clothing, caps, T-shirts, and watches.
This major bust formed part of a wider SAPS crackdown on counterfeit and illicit goods across Gauteng.
On February 2, police seized 1 101 counterfeit consumables and socks in Protea, Johannesburg, valued at R85 965. The following day, the focus shifted to tech, where officers in Garsfontein, Tshwane, confiscated 569 counterfeit cellphone accessories worth an estimated R489 450.
The crackdown was a joint effort involving SARS Customs, the Commercial Crime Unit, and several national and provincial counterfeit teams.
Police said the ongoing operations are aimed at protecting consumers, legitimate businesses, and the economy, while sending a clear warning to those involved in the sale of counterfeit goods.
