Counterfeit goods worth R2.8m confiscated; illegal liquor outlets closed during Operation O Kae Molao in Gauteng

PARKTOWN – A multidisciplinary Operation O Kae Molao conducted around Gauteng on Thursday, 30 June 2022, resulted in the confiscation of counterfeit goods worth more than R2.8 million and the closure of illegal liquor outlets where alcohol to the estimated value of R2 million was seized.

In Randburg, Johannesburg District, members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) were joined by the South African Revenue Service – Customs, Fidelity Reaction and Brandholders when they raided various shops that are trading in counterfeit goods. Branded local and international items that include sneakers, clothing, watches and handbags were seized. Two suspects were arrested and charged with possession and trading in counterfeit goods while 260 suspects were arrested for other serious and violent crimes.

In Vosloorus, Ekurhuleni District, Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Elias Mawela led an integrated Operation O Kae Molao where eight illegal liquor outlets were closed down and alcohol to the estimated value of R2 million seized. One suspect was arrested after he was found with a fraudulent liquor trading license. One hundred and seventy-two other suspects were arrested for various crimes.

Members of the South African Police Service within the West Rand District together with other law enforcement agencies conducted Operation O Kae Molao in Magaliesburg, Hekpoort and Tarlton where a total of 110 suspects were arrested for crimes ranging from murder, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, armed robbery, possession of unlicensed firearm and damage to essential infrastructure.

Operations were also effective in Tshwane and Sedibeng Districts where more than 320 suspects were arrested for various crimes.

Arrested suspects will appear before different Magistrates’ Courts from Friday, 01 July 2022.