A MULTI-PROVINCE, multidisciplinary crackdown on illicit goods saw R17m worth of counterfeit items confiscated and 16 people arrested during April operations.

Led by the national and provincial Counterfeit and Illicit Goods units, multidisciplinary teams consisting of SAPS members and crime-fighting partners carried out 33 take-down operations across the Free State, Gauteng, KZN, Mpumalanga and the Western Cape.

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“These operations resulted in the seizure of large quantities of counterfeit and illicit goods, including branded clothing, sports apparel, cellphone accessories, toys, pharmaceuticals, consumables, as well as counterfeit liquor and cigarettes,” said the SAPS.

“Police arrested 16 suspects in total, of whom nine were arrested for contravening the Immigration Act, five for contravening the Counterfeit Goods Act, and two for contravening the Liquor Act.”

The SAPS further warned community members to think twice before buying counterfeit and illicit goods.

• Counterfeit and illicit goods pose serious risks to consumers, legitimate businesses, and the country’s economy

• These products are often manufactured and distributed outside regulated systems, with no regard for quality standards, safety, or lawful trade practices

• Legitimate manufacturers and retailers lose market share to illegal traders, leading to reduced production and job losses

• Counterfeit goods infringe on the intellectual property rights of legitimate brand owners

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