Police seize R37 million worth of counterfeit goods in Durban CBD

Five people were arrested in a police operation targeting counterfeit goods in the Durban CBD on Thursday morning.

Police confiscated high-end clothing brands worth over R37 million and arrested five suspects, all of whom are foreign nationals.

KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson, Colonel Robert Netshiunda, confirmed that a special task team dealing with contraband, counterfeit, and illicit goods had gathered intelligence about shops on Dr Pixley kaSeme Street, in the Point area, allegedly selling fake brand-name items.

“Police obtained search warrants for several shops, which were raided on Thursday. This led to the recovery of counterfeit clothing, watches, and other big-brand products,” Colonel Netshiunda said.

In addition to the counterfeit goods, police also seized R200 000 in cash.

Colonel Netshiunda said the five suspects are currently in custody and will soon appear in court. Their status in the country is still being verified by authorities.

"Once processed, the suspects will be taken to court," he added.