Over R100 Million Confiscated in One Week
CCN Reporter
Cape Town:- In a continued crackdown on the illicit trade, the South African Police Service (SAPS), together with the National and Western Cape Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Units and various partners, executed search-and-seizure warrants at more than 40 shops in a Bellville shopping complex on Tuesday, 16 June 2026. 
The operation resulted in the seizure of counterfeit goods valued at an estimated R10 million, including high-end fake branded clothing, shoes, bags, watches, sunglasses, caps, and associated packaging.
This follows a major raid at the same complex approximately one week earlier (around 9 June 2026), during which counterfeit merchandise worth nearly R98 million (or over R90 million according to some reports) was confiscated. Combined, the two operations have removed more than R100 million in illicit goods from circulation in under a week.
National police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk confirmed the details, highlighting the multidisciplinary nature of the effort. The team included SAPS members, the Cape Town Metropolitan Police Department, City of Cape Town Law Enforcement, and brand protectors.
Authorities described the raids as part of broader national efforts to combat the sale of counterfeit and illicit goods, which undermine legitimate businesses, expose consumers to potentially unsafe products, and deprive the state of revenue.
No arrests were prominently detailed in initial statements for the latest operation, but officials indicated that further actions and updates could follow as investigations continue.
The Bellville area, known for its busy shopping precincts near transport hubs, has been a repeated focus for such enforcement actions. SAPS has emphasized its commitment to sustained operations against organized illicit trade networks.
Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.