R160m in counterfeit goods seized in Joburg CBD crackdown
This resulted in the seizure of more than 62 000 counterfeit items including high-end brands
The National Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Unit has confiscated counterfeit products worth over R160 million during a coordinated operation in Johannesburg’s CBD, as authorities intensify their efforts to combat the trade in fake and illicit goods. The operation, which took place on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, involved search-and-seizure warrants at multiple shops in a retail building, resulting in the apprehension of more than 62,000 counterfeit items, including high-end branded clothing, footwear, cosmetics, watches, jewelry, and sunglasses.
The operation was supported by the Public Order Policing Unit in Pretoria, the South African Revenue Services Customs Division, and brand protectors. Authorities warn that counterfeit goods infringe on intellectual property rights, pose health and safety risks to consumers, are often manufactured outside regulated systems, and deprive legitimate manufacturers and retailers of market share, leading to job losses.
Additionally, Free State police seized counterfeit footwear worth over R400,000 during a safer festive season operation in Bloemfontein.
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