The South African Police Service seized more than 70 000 counterfeit items valued at over R90 million in January 2025.
The police also arrested 37 suspects of various nationalities during multiple takedown operations conducted in Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal throughout January.
The seized counterfeit and illicit goods included cellphones and accessories, pharmaceuticals, cigarettes, toys, clothing and consumables.
The National Counterfeit Goods Unit led the operations with the support of the provincial Counterfeit Goods Units, the Department of Home Affairs, the South African Revenue Service Customs division, and brand protectors.
A Mission Action Joint Operation Centre roving team, comprising SAPS members from various specialised units such as the Tactical Response Team, Public Order Policing and SAPS drone pilots deployed in Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal as part of Operation Vala Umgodi, also participated in the operations.
While primarily focused on combating illicit mining, these teams also target other criminal activities within the provinces.
The National Counterfeit Goods Unit won the Visible Policing Team of the Year category at the SAPS National Excellence Awards held on Sunday, 26 January 2025. – SAnews.gov.za
