Eastern Cape police have confiscated illicit pharmaceuticals and suspected counterfeit goods valued at approximately R2.2 million during a tactical operation in Korsten, Gqeberha, on 30 July.
According to police spokesperson, Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana, police acted on intelligence provided by the SAPS Sea Border Office.
Following that intelligence, Gantana stated that a “multi-disciplinary team comprising Border Policing (CDSI Airport), K9 Unit, Crime Intelligence, and brand-holder agents executed searches at a wholesaler in Durban Road and a warehouse on Daisy Road in Korsten.”
She noted the operation targeted transnational criminal networks involved in the distribution of unlicensed and potentially hazardous goods.
Seized items include:
• 17 430 Viagra pills
• 224 Viagra Jelly sachets
• 2 640 Adcodol tablets
• 6 480 Apetito tablets
• 3 560 pregnancy test kits
• 4 680 skin-whitening creams
• 648 Colgate toothbrushes
• 584 Kiwi Shoe Polish units
• 106 rodent traps
According to her, the total street value is estimated at R2.2 million.
She urged the public to stop using unregulated pharmaceuticals and health products.
“Items such as erectile dysfunction medications, unregistered analgesics, and whitening creams may contain toxic substances or incorrect dosages, posing severe health risks in violation of the Medicines Act,” she urged.
Acting Provincial Commissioner of Eastern Cape Major General Thandiswa Kupiso stated: “This R2.2 million seizure disrupts criminal enterprises exploiting consumer safety for profit. We commend the integrated efforts of our units and private partners. The public must reject unregulated products – your health is not worth the risk.”
