Hawks confiscated counterfeit Hart pots valued at over R1 million. Photo: Supplied/Hawks
Image: Hawks
Members of the Hawks' Serious Commercial Crime Investigation (SCCI) teamed up with various police units to dismantle a distribution network of counterfeit goods in Johannesburg on Friday.
The coordinated search and seizure operation was conducted in Johannesburg Crown Mines warehouse and Dragon City mall, leading to the confiscation of counterfeit Hart pots valued at over R1 million.
Hawks spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Singo, said the intelligence that sparked the operation originated on February 27, 2025, when the SCCI in the head office received information about warehouses in Johannesburg suspected of involvement in the distribution of counterfeit merchandise.
Following the crucial tip-off, the team followed legal protocols and secured a search and seizure warrant, which was granted on March 12, 2025.
Singo said the counterfeit goods were immediately secured for further investigation as authorities work to trace the network behind their distribution.
In addition to the confiscated items, the operation uncovered a grim reality at one of the warehouses—31 illegal immigrants were apprehended during the raid. While no arrests have yet been made related to the counterfeit goods, criminal proceedings have been initiated against the owners of the implicated warehouses.
He said the dual approach underscores the Hawks' commitment not only to combatting commercial crime but also addressing the human element associated with illegal activities.
The Hawks have expressed their determination to maintain a zero-tolerance policy against counterfeit operations that undermine legitimate businesses and pose risks to consumers.
sinenhlanhla.masilela@iol.co.za
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