The South African Police Services (SAPS) in the Free State have conducted takedown operations, which have resulted in the seizure of counterfeit goods valued at more than R19 million and the arrest of six suspects during separate operations. 

The six suspects are foreign nationals. 

The police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk, said the operations over the past week were conducted in Bloemfontein. 

“The operations were led by the National Counterfeit Goods Unit, with support from members of Public Order Policing (POP) in Bloemfontein, officials from the South African Revenue Service (SARS) Customs division, brand protectors, and private security personnel.

“Search and seizure warrants were executed in accordance with the Customs and Excise Act at targeted shops in the Bloemfontein central business district (CBD),” van Wyk said. 

She said over the course of two days, more than 13,000 counterfeit items, including clothing, shoes, bags, and jewellery, were confiscated. The majority of the seized items are imitations of high-end luxury brands.

“Six foreign nationals were arrested for contravening the Immigration Act. One of the suspects is also facing an additional charge for resisting arrest,” van Wyk said. 

Police management said it remains committed to disrupting and dismantling the illegal trade in counterfeit and illicit goods in order to protect consumers, safeguard legitimate businesses, and support the South African economy.

robin.francke@iol.co.za

IOL

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