South African police seize R27.5 million in counterfeit goods during Gauteng raids

The South African Police Service’s National Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Unit, together with the South African Revenue Service and the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications, carried out a four‑day operation across Gauteng province. The raids, which included shops in the Johannesburg central business district and storage facilities in Randburg and Heidelberg, resulted in the seizure of more than 56,000 counterfeit items – clothing, shoes, toner cartridges and illicit pharmaceutical products – valued at over R27.5 million.

Lieutenant Colonel Amanda Van Wyk, SAPS spokesperson, said the actions were taken under the Counterfeit Goods Act of 1997 to protect intellectual‑property rights and public safety. The raids prompted angry crowds to gather outside foreign‑owned shops, reflecting community concerns over jobs and affordable prices. Police indicated the operation will continue in partnership with brand owners and other law‑enforcement agencies to dismantle the illegal trade.