In a major crackdown on criminal networks, the South African Police Service (SAPS) and its crime-fighting partners seized more than R100 million worth of fake goods in Bellville.

SAPS says these operations are striking a decisive blow against the illegal trade in counterfeit and illicit goods, sending a strong message to those profiting from criminal activity.

“The National Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Unit led a joint takedown operation in Bellville on Tuesday, 24 March 2026, which resulted in the seizure of counterfeit goods worth more than R117 million.”

The operation led to the confiscation of several items ranging from clothing to accessories.

“The team seized over 130 000 counterfeit items, including branded clothing, sports apparel, sneakers, caps, sunglasses, and watches,” SAPS added.

Meanwhile, in Johannesburg, the Gauteng Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Unit, supported by various partners, shut down a counterfeit manufacturing plant operating in a medical building in the CBD. Authorities confiscated counterfeit goods and label-printing machines valued at over R28 million.

Additionally, a large consignment of fake cigarettes worth R15 million was seized in KwaZulu-Natal.

“These operations form part of broader efforts to address the illegal trade in counterfeit and illicit goods in the country. The illegal trade in counterfeit goods not only undermines the economy of South Africa but also threatens consumer health and safety, infringes on intellectual property rights, and erodes legitimate businesses.”