Police seize counterfeit goods worth R117 million in Cape Town

The South African Police Service (SAPS), in collaboration with its crime-fighting partners, continues to record commendable progress in dismantling criminal networks involved in the illegal trade in counterfeit and illicit goods.

Police have confiscated counterfeit goods worth more than R117 million during a joint operation in Bellville, Cape Town, earlier this week.

The operation was led by the South African Police Service’s National Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Unit and resulted in the seizure of more than 130 000 items. The items included clothing, sneakers, caps and watches.

The operation involved a multi-disciplinary team comprising Crime Intelligence, Public Order Policing and officials from the South African Revenue Service Customs Division.

Authorities say the seizure forms part of a broader national crackdown, during which counterfeit goods worth more than R160 million have been confiscated across the country.

Police say the illegal trade in counterfeit goods continues to pose a threat to the economy, consumer safety and legitimate businesses.

#sapsHQ [COUNTERFEIT GOODS RAID] The South African Police Service (SAPS), in collaboration with its crime-fighting partners, continues to record commendable progress in dismantling criminal networks involved in the illegal trade in counterfeit and illicit goods.

This week,… pic.twitter.com/nu3eSHBaQr

— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) March 28, 2026