In a major operation against illicit trade, the Hawks’ Durban Serious Commercial Crime Investigation unit uncovered counterfeit goods valued at nearly R59 million during a raid on a freight container depot on Friday, 24 October 2025.
The operation was launched after border police intercepted and detained a suspicious container, prompting the Hawks to conduct a search and seizure.
Upon inspection, authorities discovered a vast haul of counterfeit products imitating some of the world’s most prominent fashion brands. The seized items included fake Nike, Ellese, Hugo Boss, Fabiani, Puma, Lacoste, Diesel, Gucci, Adidas, Converse, Calvin Klein, Steve Madden, New Balance, Burberry, and Versace merchandise. The estimated street value of the confiscated goods is R58,970,400.
No arrests have been made in connection with the seizure at this stage. Authorities confirmed that the investigation is ongoing.
