· Over 86,000 fake designer items, sportswear, toys and consumables were taken in a massive police operation across several towns.
· The raids were part of a national crackdown aimed at stopping counterfeit trade, protecting businesses and keeping dangerous products off the streets.
North West police have seized counterfeit goods valued at more than R260-million in a sweeping operation that targeted several towns this month.
The raids happened between 15 and 24 September 2025 in Coligny, Klerksdorp, Mahikeng and Rustenburg. Officers also searched shops in Lichtenburg, Potchefstroom, Ventersdorp and Zeerust.
Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk, spokesperson for the South African Police Service (SAPS), said more than 86,000 fake items were taken. These included designer handbags, shoes, branded clothing, sports apparel, toys and consumables.
The raids were carried out by the National Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Unit, Public Order Policing, Crime Prevention Units, the South African Revenue Service (Sars) Customs Division and brand protectors.
Van Wyk said customs officials and brand representatives were vital in spotting fake items and making sure they were removed.
She added that the Counterfeit Goods Act of 1997 makes it illegal to manufacture or sell counterfeit products. The law is meant to protect intellectual property rights, stop organised crime and keep harmful fake goods away from the public.
The latest raids form part of a national campaign to crack down on counterfeit trade, which officials say is robbing legitimate businesses of income and putting consumers at risk.
Pictured above: police display confiscated counterfeit goods
Source: SAPS
