JMPD uncover multi-million rand counterfeit goods operation

The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has uncovered a multi-million rand counterfeit goods operation in Eikenhof, south of Johannesburg.

It is understood officers were conducting crime prevention patrols on Wednesday, when they stopped a white Toyota Quantum Panel Van along Swartkoppies Road and R82 (Vereeniging Road) in Kibler Park.

Counterfeit goods

JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla said upon searching the vehicle, the officers discovered clothing items (headwear) suspected to be counterfeit.

“The driver was requested to produce receipts for the items in his possession, but he failed to do so. He was questioned by the officers on how he acquired the items, and he led them to a plot in Eikenhof.

“Upon arrival at the plot, additional suspected counterfeit goods, which included branded caps, hats and beanies were recovered. Three embroidery machines were also recovered on the premises. The alleged owner of the premises was summoned and upon arrival at the site, he alluded that he was renting the plot and overseeing the activities,” Fihla said.

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Foreign nationals

Fihla added that police and South African Revenue Services (Sars) custom officials and Brand Protectors were called to verify the items and to process the scene.

The duo, a Chinese and Zimbabwean national who both have South African citizenship were arrested and detained at the Mondeor Police Station in Johannesburg.

“Two male suspects, aged between 54 and 55, were arrested For Contravention of the Customs and Excise Act, Contravention of the Counterfeit Goods Act, and Bribery. The alleged kingpin attempted to bribe the officers with R30 000 to get himself and his accomplice released.

“The counterfeit goods and the embroidery machines with a combined estimated value of R 3 075 000 were seized,” Fihla said.

Mpumalanga licencing officials slapped with hefty fines

Meanwhile, four Standerton licensing officials have been sentenced to hefty fines or imprisonment in connection with multiple counts of fraud committed at the local registering authority between 2013 and 2019, which cost the Mpumalanga provincial government millions of rand.

The officials appeared in the Middelburg Regional Court on Wednesday, where the sentences were handed down.

ALSO READ: Mpumalanga licencing officials slapped with hefty fines for multi-million rand fraud