PARKTOWN - Peddling of counterfeit goods is a crime that has a negative impact on the economy of the country hence the police together with other law enforcement agencies embark on multi-disciplinary operations to deal with such.

On 01 February 2023, a team comprising of different units of SAPS in Gauteng, Customs from SARS, Brand Protectors and private security companies operationalised intelligence information on stores selling counterfeit goods in Eastgate.

The team seized counterfeit goods worth approximately R6 million and arrested two men found in possession and selling the goods. The goods included bags, shoes and clothes. The two suspects will be expected to appear before court soon once charged under the Counterfeit Goods Act.

The Provincial Commissioner of the police in Gauteng, Lieutenant General Elias Mawela has welcomed the arrest and commended the team for their unabated efforts in curbing this kind of crime. "The business of counterfeit goods impact negatively on our economy because those dealing in this business evade taxes. I applaud the team for working together in dealing decisively with those contravening the Act", said Lt Gen Mawela.

Source: South African Police Service