Fake branded sneakers were among the items that were seized in Johannesburg central shops on March 11.
Image: X/SA Police Services
Gauteng police have dealt a significant blow to counterfeiters, seizing goods worth over R5.9 million in a raid on shops in Johannesburg Central.
The operation, conducted on March 11, which was led by various police units, including the Counterfeit Unit, Border Policing, Public Order Policing, Gauteng Traffic Wardens, and brand protectors.
Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo, spokesperson for the Office of the Provincial Commissioner Gauteng said that different units of the police raided more shops dealing in counterfeit, contraband and illicit goods.
The seized goods included clothing, shoes, jewellery, illicit cigarettes, and illicit alcohol.
This is not an isolated incident, as Gauteng police have been actively targeting counterfeiters in recent months.
In November 2024, a large-scale operation led by the National Counterfeit Goods Unit seized counterfeit goods worth over R66 million in Johannesburg's CBD.
The police have vowed to continue these operations throughout Gauteng, as long as there are still shops and people dealing in illicit and counterfeit goods.
"These operations will continue throughout Gauteng as long as there are still shops and people dealing in illicit and counterfeit goods," said Masondo.
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