Police arrest two suspects and seize over R8 Million worth of counterfeit goods during a takedown operation in Rustenburg

Police seized counterfeit goods worth over R8 million and arrested two suspects on Thursday, 29 February 2024 during an integrated takedown operation in Rustenburg. Police also seized over R30 000 in cash which was recovered along with the counterfeit goods.

The integrated team comprised of SAPS members from various specialised units, officials from South African Revenue Services (SARS), Customs, Brand Protectors and security officials.

The team operationalised information they obtained on a number of shops in Rustenburg suspected of dealing in counterfeit goods; a search and seizure warrant was executed. This resulted in the seizure of various counterfeit items such as clothing apparel, shoes, caps and bags.

The two suspects will face charges related to the Counterfeit Goods Act 37 of 1997 while one will face an additional charge for contravention of the Immigration Act 13 of 2002.

To date, the SAPS’ National Counterfeit Goods unit in collaboration with its various crime fighting partners seized over R200 million worth of counterfeit goods and over R1 million in cash during multiple takedown operations in different parts of the country; this unit was established in November last year.