Counterfeit goods worth over R1 million were confiscated by Border Police from different shops in Nelson Mandela Bay.
It is alleged that on 27 October Sea Border members received information regarding the sale of counterfeits goods at different shops in the Metro, said Colonel Sibongile Soci, police spokesperson.
“The members engaged the role players from Spoor and Fisher patent attorneys (attorneys representing the branded goods in South Africa). A joint operation between Ngqura Sea Port and members from Spoor and Fisher was conducted and counterfeit goods were recovered from three shops,” Soci said.
The goods confiscated are as follows:
- 240 units La Coste perfume
- 540 units Chanel No 5 perfume
- 3 870 units Bvlgari perfumes
These items have an estimated street value of R1 395 000. Colgate toothbrushes, lipstick and blades with an estimated street value of R189 500 were also recovered.
“All the goods were seized after being confirmed by patent attorneys that they are counterfeit and were handed over to the licenced warehouse for further destructions.”
Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Liziwe Ntshinga commended law abiding citizens who continue to provide SAPS with information on these counterfeit goods and the Border Policing members for their quick response in following up information.
“The quick response by Border Policing members in following up information on these counterfeit goods will ensure that more counterfeit goods are seized and removed from the shops and in return curb the proliferation of these goods,” she said.
“Fake and counterfeit products pose a serious risk to the country’s economy as South Africa loses tax revenue due to the illicit trade. The community is fervently urged to refrain from buying counterfeit goods and to report any suspicious behaviour to the police,” she added.
