The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Gauteng zeroed in on counterfeit and illicit goods.
Police seized counterfeit goods worth approximately R8 367 200.
The disruptive operations took place in Sandton, Johannesburg Central, Vanderbijlpark, Pretoria Central, Temba and Jeppe.
COUNTERFEIT GOODS IN GAUTENG: SAPS OPERATIONS
Officers began operations from 6 October to 16 October 2025.
They confiscated 58 250 items.
The Gauteng Counterfeit Unit, brand protectors, the Commercial Crimes Unit and the Gauteng Prevention Wardens carried out the operations.
HOW TO IDENTIFY COUNTERFEIT GOODS
Check the price
If the price is too good to be true, then it is. Sellers of counterfeit goods often undercut original brands to move stock faster.
Look at the packaging
Fake items usually come in poor quality packaging or packaging with spelling mistakes, wrong logos or off-brand colours. Some come in plain packaging to avoid detection.
Check the seller and the reviews
Counterfeit sellers often disable reviews or use fake ones. If a product has no reviews or has strange bot-like names and repetitive comments, treat it as a red flag.
AVOID BUYING COUNTERFEIT GOODS
Buy from authorised retailers
Stick to official stores, brand websites and verified outlets. Street vendors, social media marketplaces and unknown websites pose a higher risk.
Compare with the original.
Look at the logo, stitching, material, labelling and serial numbers. Counterfeit goods usually miss one or more details.
Check return and warranty policies
Reputable sellers offer return options or warranties. Most counterfeit sellers refuse returns or dodge questions about guarantees.
Pay attention to payment methods
If the seller only accepts cash, instant EFT or untraceable payment methods, be cautious. Legitimate retailers use secure payment platforms.
Look out for spelling and grammar errors online
Fake websites and online listings often contain typing errors, odd layouts or low-quality images.
REPORT COUNTERFEIT GOODS IN GAUTENG
Report suspicious goods or sellers at your nearest police station or call the SAPS Crime Stop number: 08-600-10111. You can stay anonymous.
You can also alert the South African Revenue Services Customs if the counterfeit goods involve imports.
