Over R100 million worth of counterfeit goods seized

CAPE TOWN – Efforts to clamp down on the illegal trade of counterfeit goods were rewarded when truckloads of fake clothing, watches, perfumes and other apparel were confiscated during an integrated operation in Bellville yesterday morning.

The multimillion rand takedown operation, between members of SAPS, Customs and Excise and brand protectors from various popular products kicked off with a search warrant at a shopping complex close to the Bellville taxi rank where two similar operations have been conducted in the last six months.

Upon the arrival of SAPS, shop keepers abandoned their stores and fled the scene, but this did not prevent the operation to continue. Although arrests are yet to be made, counterfeit goods valued at over R100 million as well as 30 vehicles which were used to store stock in the parking area were seized.

The Provincial Commissioner of the Western Cape police, Lt Gen (Adv) TE Patekile issued a warning to building owners and landlords who are well aware of the illegal activities on their premises that they are also in the sights of SAPS.