Cape Town - Fake high-end brands worth an estimated street value of R55 million have been confiscated in the Bellville CBD.
Officers from the Provincial Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Unit, Public Order Police, and Mobile Operations Unit carried out the integrated operation on Sunday.
The Bellville CBD is recognised as one of the major distribution hubs for illegal and counterfeit items in the Western Cape.
During the operation, a search and seizure warrant was executed at the stores.
Police spokesperson Malcolm Pojie said several brands of counterfeit products, including well-known high-end brands, were seized in the process.
“The illicit trade in counterfeit goods and contraband not only has a detrimental effect on the economy of the country, but also poses a major risk to its inhabitants,” Pojie said. “As such, the SAPS remains resolute in clamping down on the illegal trade.”
No arrests were made, while the counterfeit depot received all seized items to store and dispose of them.
Provincial police commissioner Thembisile Patekile thanked the officers and key figures for their efforts and dedication in safeguarding the economy.
Consumer Goods Council of SA executive responsible for Crime Risk Initiative, Abraham Nelson, said the illicit trade and counterfeiting of goods had become a significant problem for the consumer goods industry.
He said a concerted multi-stakeholder approach was needed to deal with the threat.
Prominent vape company Elfbar recently strengthened its anti-counterfeit stance by seizing almost 3 600 fake vapes in its most recent operation with South African authorities.
In July, a simultaneous raid operation was carried out in Johannesburg and Cape Town under a search order.
Many of the outdated vape versions, such as the CR5000, BC5000, and EB1500, were among the counterfeits seized.
Nelson said the illicit trade not only robbed the government of muchneeded revenue, but also affected the viability of legitimate brand owners.
“Continued search and seizure operations, identification and interdiction of organised criminal groups and the imposing of lengthy jail terms for the perpetrators will be key to address this issue and will also serve as an effect deterrent,” he said.
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Cape Argus