SAPS arrested 37 suspects of various nationalities over counterfeit goods
The multiple takedown operations took place in Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal throughout January 2025.
SAPS seized more than 70,000 counterfeit items valued at over R90 million and arrested 37 suspects of various nationalities during multiple takedown operations conducted in Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal throughout January 2025. Picture: @SAPoliceService/X.
JOHANNESBURG - The South African Police Service (SAPS) has arrested 37 suspects of various nationalities over counterfeit goods valued at more than R90 million.
The multiple takedown operations took place in Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal throughout January 2025.
It is understood that seized counterfeit and illicit goods include cellphones and accessories, pharmaceuticals, cigarettes, toys, clothing and consumables.
"These operations were led by the National Counterfeit Goods Unit, with support from the Provincial Counterfeit Goods Units, the Department of Home Affairs, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) customs division, and brand protectors. A major roving team, comprising of SAPS members from various specialised units such as the Tactical Response Team (TRT), Public Order Policing (POP), and SAPS drone pilots deployed in Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal as part of Operation Vala Umgodi, also formed part of the operations," said SAPS spokesperson Amanda van Wyk.