The Western Cape SAPS counterfeit task team seized illegal goods worth R55-million in a recent raid on shops in Cape Town.
The team, along with other police units, carried out the operation in the Bellville CBD – a major hub for selling fake and illegal goods.
Western Cape police spokesperson Lieutenant Malcolm Pojie said that the trade in fake goods harms the economy and puts people at risk.
“Police searched the premises [of several retail outlets] with a warrant and took various brands of fake goods worth about R55-million, including popular high-end brands,” said Pojie.
The seized goods were taken for storage and eventual disposal.
Resident Lusindiso Mateyisi criticised the operation, saying that taking the goods without arresting the sellers doesn’t solve the problem.
“This happens almost every year. Why aren’t they arresting the people selling these fake goods? They just buy more and keep selling. What’s the point if the sellers are not arrested?” said Mateyisi.
Western Cape provincial police commissioner Lieutenant-General Thembisile Patekile praised the team for their hard work.
“Even though no arrests were made, we believe we’ve made progress in our fight against this global problem,” said Patekile.
Pictured above: SAPS counterfeit task team seizes R55-million worth of counterfeit goods.
Source: Supplied
