In a coordinated operation in Midrand, the National Counterfeit Goods Unit confiscated counterfeit luxury goods valued at over R3 million.
The operation, conducted on Thursday, 16 May, involved various stakeholders, including the National Counterfeit Goods Unit, Commercial Crimes Detectives, South African Revenue Services (SARS) officials, and Brand Protectors.
The team executed a search and seizure warrant targeting shops in a Midrand shopping center, resulting in the confiscation of over 4,000 items imitating well-known brands such as sports apparel, shoes, cellphones, and accessories.
Arrest of Pakistani National for Bribery Attempt
During the operation, a Pakistani national attempted to bribe officials and was subsequently arrested.
This arrest underscores the ongoing efforts to combat bribery and corruption in such operations.
The apprehension of individuals attempting to subvert the law demonstrates the seriousness of the authorities in enforcing anti-corruption measures.
Previous Operations and Efforts
Recent successes in combating counterfeit goods build on previous operations conducted by the National Counterfeit Goods Unit across various regions over the past six months.
These efforts reflect a concerted campaign to address the influx of counterfeit or illicit products into South Africa, which poses significant economic challenges by leading to revenue losses.
Confiscation of Fake Fuel Products
In a separate raid last week in Johannesburg, a specialized police task force seized counterfeit petroleum oil products valued at R225,000. This operation, conducted in Centurion, resulted in the arrest of four Zimbabwean nationals.
The collaborative effort involved the National Counterfeit Unit, Commercial Crimes Investigations team, and brand protection authorities, who executed a raid based on actionable intelligence.
The seized counterfeit petroleum oil products, with an estimated value of R225,000, will undergo verification by the Department of Home Affairs to determine the residency status of the arrested foreign nationals.
These individuals are currently facing charges under the Counterfeit Goods Act of 1997.
World News
TDPel Media
This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn