Police seize R1.5 mln in counterfeit sports merchandise in Joburg

Police have seized over 1 700 counterfeit sports apparel and footwear items valued at more than R1.5 million.

The items, bearing well-known brands, including Springboks-branded merchandise, were discovered at a storage facility in the Johannesburg CBD this week.

National police spokesperson Amanda van Wyk says the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to disrupt and dismantle criminal networks involved in the manufacture, distribution and sale of counterfeit and illicit goods.

“The timing of the seizure is particularly significant as South Africans and rugby supporters prepare for the Springboks’ upcoming encounter against New Zealand, a period when demand for team-branded merchandise is expected to increase. In addition to the counterfeit merchandise, police seized manufacturing equipment and materials believed to have been used in the production and distribution of counterfeit goods. These include counterfeit labels and stickers, an embossing machine and silkscreen plates.”

#sapsHQ [COUNTERFEIT GOODS AND MANUFACTURING EQUIPMENT WORTH MORE THAN R1.5 MILLION SEIZED FROM JHB CBD STORAGE FACILITY AHEAD OF SPRINGBOKS-NEW ZEALAND RUGBY MATCH]

The South African Police Service (SAPS), together with other law enforcement agencies and stakeholders, has… pic.twitter.com/OjIBKM080q

— SA Police Service (@SAPoliceService) September 5, 2026