Police seize R1.5 mln in counterfeit sports merchandise in Joburg
The items, including Springboks-branded merchandise, were found at a storage facility in the CBD
Police in Johannesburg have apprehended more than 1,700 pieces of counterfeit sports apparel and footwear, estimated to be worth over R1.5 million. The items, featuring popular brands, including those associated with the Springboks, were found at a storage location in the city center this week. National police spokesperson Amanda van Wyk stated that the operation is part of ongoing efforts to disrupt and dismantle criminal networks dealing in counterfeit and illicit goods.
Van Wyk emphasized that the timing of the seizure is particularly notable, as South Africans and rugby fans gear up for the Springboks' upcoming match against New Zealand, a period when demand for team-branded merchandise is anticipated to rise. Apart from the counterfeit merchandise, authorities seized manufacturing equipment and materials potentially used in the production and distribution of counterfeit goods, including fake labels, an embossing machine, and silk-screen printing plates.
The South African Police Service, along with other law enforcement entities and stakeholders, has been actively involved in this operation.
Written by urgent.news from SABC News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
