
The combined efforts of the South African Police Service, represented by the MAJOC Roving Team as part of Operation Vala Umgodi, National Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Unit, and South African Revenue Service (SARS) Customs have led to a major success in the ongoing fight against counterfeit goods and illicit cigarettes, with confiscation of an estimated value of over R7 million.
Over three days, from 16-18 January, coordinated operations led by the MAJOC Roving Team, comprising members from specialised units deployed in Limpopo working closely with the Bloemfontein K9 Unit, targeted illicit trade in the Mphephu and Musina policing precincts under the Vhembe District. This resulted in the seizure of counterfeit goods and other illegal merchandise valued at R6 694 227.
In Musina, a successful operation following a high-speed car chase resulted in the seizure of illicit cigarettes worth R729 891. Acting on a tip-off, the MAJOC Roving Team, in collaboration with Musina police, intercepted two BMW sedans suspected of carrying illegal cigarettes. Upon approaching the vehicles, the occupants fled, abandoning the cars, which were found to contain several boxes of illicit cigarettes. The vehicles were confiscated as part of the investigation.
Meanwhile, on 17 January 2025, operations at various shops in Mphephu led to the confiscation of counterfeit cosmetics valued at R154 030 and illicit cigarettes worth approximately R1 726.
The following day, 18 January 2025, operations at 10 shops in Musina town led to the discovery of counterfeit clothing worth R6 222 435 and cosmetics valued at R119 675, totalling R6 342 110.
Over the course of the three-day operation, a total of over R7 million worth of illegal goods were seized at 16 shops.
In addition to combating illegal mining activities, Operation Vala Umgodi demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated law enforcement efforts in curbing the distribution of counterfeit and illegal products in South Africa. The operation, which also includes stop-and-search activities, route patrols, and foot patrols, forms part of broader national initiatives aimed at enhancing security, disrupting criminal activities, and protecting local economies.
Over R7 million worth of counterfeit goods and illicit cigarettes seized during joint operation in Vhembe District https://t.co/FCUTEPNhRq#ArriveAlive #CounterfeitGoods @SAPoliceService @TruckAndFreight pic.twitter.com/TDnLRQZe8c
– Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) January 19, 2025