Over R20 Million in counterfeit goods seized, 35 suspects arrested during takedown in Johannesburg
This week, the South African Police Service (SAPS), in collaboration with various crime-fighting partners, seized counterfeit goods worth more than R20 million during a multi-disciplinary takedown operation in Bruma, east of Johannesburg.
The operation resulted in the arrest of 35 individuals. One suspect was arrested for contravening the Counterfeit Goods Act while 34 foreign nationals were arrested for contravening the Immigration Act.
Led by the SAPS National Counterfeit Goods Unit, the operation included support from the Gauteng Provincial Counterfeit Goods Unit, Crime Intelligence, Public Order Policing (POP), the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), the Department of Home Affairs, SARS Customs, the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS), brand protectors, Crime Prevention Wardens, and private security companies.
Acting on intelligence gathered, the team executed search and seizure warrants in accordance with the Customs and Excise Act and the Counterfeit Goods Act. The operation led to the seizure of over 24 000 counterfeit items, including branded clothing, footwear, handbags, perfumes, jewellery, and cellphone accessories.
The SAPS remains relentless in its efforts to dismantle the illegal trade in counterfeit and illicit goods in order to protect consumers against harmful products, support legitimate businesses, and uphold the integrity of South Africa’s economy.
Over R20 Million in counterfeit goods seized, 35 suspects arrested during a takedown in Johannesburghttps://t.co/pxL6cuiRLI#ArriveAlive #Crime @SAPoliceService pic.twitter.com/u00RBPPuq9
– Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) May 24, 2025
