R1.5m counterfeit haul seized ahead of Springboks-All Blacks clash

Police have seized more than R1.5 million worth of counterfeit goods, including fake Springbok merchandise, during a raid on a Johannesburg CBD storage facility ahead of Saturday’s clash against New Zealand.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) said officers recovered more than 1 700 counterfeit sports apparel and footwear items during the intelligence-led operation this week.

Police also seized equipment and materials allegedly used to manufacture counterfeit goods, including an embossing machine, silkscreen plates, fake labels and stickers.

The raid comes as demand for Springbok merchandise surges ahead of the highly anticipated Test against the All Blacks at FNB Stadium on Saturday, 5 September.

Police uncover fake Springbok merchandise

The National Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Unit led the multidisciplinary operation after receiving intelligence about the Johannesburg CBD storage facility.

Officers executed several search-and-seizure warrants and uncovered large quantities of sports apparel and footwear carrying the trademarks of well-known brands.

The haul included counterfeit Springbok-branded merchandise.

SAPS said the timing of the raid was significant as rugby supporters prepared for the Springboks’ encounter with New Zealand.

Police believe the seized manufacturing equipment and materials formed part of an operation producing and distributing counterfeit goods.

Multiple agencies join Johannesburg operation

The Gauteng Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Unit, Public Order Policing, Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department and South African Revenue Service Customs Division joined the operation.

Brand protection representatives also assisted police during the raid.

SAPS said the seizure formed part of an ongoing nationwide crackdown on criminal networks that manufacture, distribute and sell counterfeit and illicit goods.

Police urged consumers to buy sports merchandise from legitimate and authorised retailers, particularly as demand rises around major sporting events.

SAPS also called on members of the public to report suspected counterfeit goods to the relevant authorities.