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A 34-year-old man is expected to appear in the Vryheid Magistrate’s Court after he was caught transporting alleged counterfeit items to the estimated value of R1.5 million.
Police spokesperson Captain Nqobile Gwala explains that the man was arrested on Sunday morning, 14 March 2021, following a multi-disciplinary operation comprising of the Zululand Task Team, Vryheid Trio Task Team and Crime Intelligence.
Gwala said, “The team followed up on information regarding a bakkie that was transporting counterfeit goods from Emanguzi towards Newcastle.”
The vehicle was spotted travelling on the R33 Road in Vryheid when it was intercepted by law enforcement. Upon searching the vehicle, police discovered 20 bales containing counterfeit goods such as takkies and t-shirts.
With the culprit now facing charges, the Consumer Goods Council for South Africa explains the illicit trade is one of the most significant threats to both economic order and growth in South Africa. The council highlights, “Illicit trade and counterfeiting of goods robs the fiscus of taxes and in so doing impairs the government ability to serve the citizens of South Africa effectively.” Adding to this, law firm Fairbridges Wertheim Becker explains South Africa is regarded as one of the world’s fastest-growing counterfeit industries. In a statement, the law firm states, “In 2011, the value of the South African counterfeit industry was estimated at approximately R362 billion.”
Furthermore, under the Counterfeit Goods Act, persons found dealing in counterfeit goods are guilty of an offence and may be fined up to R5000 per article or face up to three years imprisonment or both; this is if they are a first-time offender. However, individuals convicted a second time may face charges up to R10 000 per article or a maximum of five years imprisonment or both.
As further investigations are underway regarding the matter, what are your thoughts? Share your views in the comment section below.
