The illicit trade in counterfeit goods and contraband not only has a detrimental effect on the economy of the country, but also poses a major risk to its inhabitants. As such the SAPS remains resolute in clamping down on the illegal trade.
On Sunday, 25 August 2024, members attached to the Western Cape SAPS Provincial Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Team, Public Order Police, Mobile Operations Unit under the guidance of counterparts from National Head Office in collaboration with brand holders and their counterparts and other partners conducted an integrated operation in the Bellville CBD which is regarded as one of the biggest counterfeit and illicit goods distributors in the Western Cape.
Members executed a search and seizure warrant at the said premises and in the process confiscated various brands of counterfeit goods with an estimated street value of about R55 million, consisting of popular high-end brands.
All confiscated goods were transported to the Counterfeit Depot for safekeeping and disposal.
“Although no arrest was effected in this regard, we believe that significant inroads have been made in our fight to eradicate this global threat”, said the provincial commissioner of the Western Cape, Lt Gen (Adv.) Thembisile Patekile. He commended the members and role-players involved for their diligence and commitment to protect the country’s economy and the inhabitants of this province. He also urged the team to execute similar unannounced
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