Police seize R98 million worth of counterfeit goods in Johannesburg
· The South African
Police have confiscated a large quantity of counterfeit goods during a coordinated law enforcement operation in Johannesburg Central.
The Gauteng Counterfeit Unit led the raid on Tuesday, 17 February 2026, targeting the sale and distribution of fake and illicit merchandise.
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Officers seized 115 294 clothing and footwear items, with authorities estimating the value at about R98 million.
Police also recovered R4 396 in cash.
Multi-agency crackdown on counterfeit goods
Several law enforcement bodies took part in the operation.
These included members of the Gauteng Counterfeit Unit, Public Order Police from Springs, Sedibeng and Pretoria, Border Police based at City Deep, Commercial Crime investigators, the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department, brand protection representatives, and South African Revenue Service Customs officials.
Officials said the joint operation was designed to disrupt the trade in counterfeit and contraband goods in the city centre.
Authorities warn of the dangers of counterfeit goods
Gauteng police stressed that illicit products remain a serious concern.
They warned that such goods can harm consumers, damage legitimate businesses, and undermine the economy.
According to authorities, counterfeit items frequently bypass regulatory checks, raising concerns about product quality, safety standards, and lawful trade compliance.
Goods verified under legislation
Customs officials and brand protectors verified and detained the seized items under the Counterfeit Goods Act of 1997.
The legislation protects intellectual property rights and aims to prevent the circulation of counterfeit products.
Authorities said the operation forms part of wider national efforts to tackle organised crime, protect legitimate trade, and reduce the availability of illegal goods.