Law enforcement agencies seized counterfeit, illicit and non-compliant goods worth hundreds of millions of rand during coordinated operations across North West.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the North West, Major General Ryno Naidoo, has praised law enforcement agencies and regulatory partners following the successful execution of coordinated illicit goods operations in Rustenburg, Brits, Marikana and Hartbeespoort Dam.
Conducted between Monday and Saturday, the intelligence-driven operations targeted the manufacture, distribution and sale of counterfeit and illicit products, while also protecting consumers from potentially harmful goods.
The operations brought together multiple agencies, including the National Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Unit, SARS, Customs, Public Order Policing, K9 units, the Anti-Gang Unit, the Commercial Crime Unit, Brand Protectors and the National Regulator for Consumer Specifications (NRCS).
Authorities seized 178 825 suspected counterfeit and illicit items with an estimated value of more than R219 million. The products included branded clothing, sports apparel, footwear, cosmetics, toys, medication and luxury fashion accessories.
The NRCS also confiscated 12 009 non-compliant products valued at more than R102 million, including consumables, canned and frozen food products, electronics and household appliances.
In addition, cash amounting to R118 400 was seized during the operations.
A criminal case has been opened under the Medicines and Related Substances Act following the discovery of unregistered medication, while investigations remain ongoing.
Authorities also confiscated illicit alcohol valued at R127 000 and counterfeit alcohol worth R18 500.
Naidoo said the success of the operation demonstrates the value of an integrated law enforcement approach in tackling organised crime and illicit trade.
He added that the seizure of counterfeit, illicit and non-compliant goods sends a strong message that authorities remain committed to protecting consumers, legitimate businesses and the economy.
Law enforcement agencies have pledged to continue intensifying operations aimed at disrupting criminal networks operating within the province.
