By Everson Luhanga
The SAPS national counterfeit goods unit led an integrated takedown operation in Midrand on Thursday, securing counterfeit goods worth over R3-million.
Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Amanda van Wyk said the operation involved national counterfeit goods unit members, commercial crime detectives, Sars, Brand Protectors, crime prevention wardens, and private security.
“They executed a search and seizure warrant, targeting shops in a shopping centre in Midrand,” said van Wyk.
She revealed the staggering scale of the operation, with over 4,000 items copying well-known brands seized, including sports clothing, shoes, cellphones, cellphone accessories, Bluetooth speakers, and earphones.
Van Wyk said a Pakistani national attempted to bribe officials during the operation and was arrested.
She said that last week, the national counterfeit goods unit, in collaboration with Brand Protectors, seized counterfeit petroleum oil worth over R200,000 and arrested four Zimbabwean nationals in Monavoni, Centurion.
“These recent successes follow similar takedown operations led by the national counterfeit goods unit,” Van Wyk said.
Pictured above: Some of the counterfeit goods seized by cops in Midrand on Thursday.
Image source: SAPS
