Bloemfontein – Police in Bloemfontein have seized counterfeit goods valued at more than R19 million and arrested six foreign nationals.
South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk the seizure of the fake branded goods and arrests occurred during separate takedown operations in Bloemfontein.
She said the operations were led by the National Counterfeit Goods Unit, with support from members of Public Order Policing, officials from the South African Revenue Service Customs division, brand protectors, and private security personnel.
“Search and seizure warrants were executed in accordance with the Customs and Excise Act at targeted shops in the Bloemfontein CBD,” Lieutenant Colonel Van Wyk said on Sunday, 29 June 2025.
“Over the course of two days, more than 13 000 counterfeit items were confiscated that included clothing, shoes, bags, and jewellery. Majority of the seized items are imitations of high-end luxury brands.
“Six foreign nationals were arrested for contravening the Immigration Act.”
Lieutenant Colonel Van Wyk said one of the suspects was also facing an additional charge for resisting arrest.
“The SAPS remains committed to disrupting and dismantling the illegal trade in counterfeit and illicit goods in order to protect consumers, safeguard legitimate businesses, and support the South African economy,” she said.
