R100 million worth of counterfeit goods seized in Bellville

by | Nov 24, 2023

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The joint operation involved SAPS, Customs and Excise, and brand protectors. Evaluation of the seized goods is still ongoing.

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In a coordinated operation involving the provincial branch of the SAPS, the Customs and Excise department, and brand protectors, authorities successfully conducted a multimillion-rand crackdown on illegal trade in Bellville.

Colonel André Traut, the provincial police spokesperson, revealed that the operation targeted a shopping complex near the Bellville taxi rank, an area that had witnessed two similar operations in the past six months.

Commencing around 11 am, the operation, unfolded as shopkeepers abandoned their stores upon SAPS arrival. The authorities seized truckloads of counterfeit clothing, watches, perfumes, and other apparel, valued at over R100 million, including items stored in 30 vehicles in the parking area. Arrests are pending.

Western Cape Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembisile Patekile, called the trade in counterfeit goods economic sabotage, and made a public appearance at the crime scene.

Patekile expressed appreciation for the team’s efforts, and issued a stern warning to building owners and landlords aware of illegal activities on their premises, indicating they are also under scrutiny.

The investigation is ongoing, and police emphasized that the evaluation of the confiscated goods is ongoing. The successful operation reflects continued efforts to combat illicit trade and protect consumers from counterfeit products in the region.

Illicit goods are now estimated to comprise around 10% of the local economy, and is largely informal.

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