Apple recently brought attention to the issue of counterfeit iPhone merchandise, leading to a successful raid by the Hawks in the Eastern Cape. A 33-year-old Indian national was arrested during the operation, where counterfeit Apple products with an estimated value of R60 000 were seized.
The arrest took place in Gqeberha, following a detailed investigation prompted by a complaint from Apple, the renowned technology company based in Cupertino, California. Apple had expressed concerns about counterfeit iPhone merchandise being sold at a local outlet in Summerstrand Village, Gqeberha, leading to the involvement of the Hawks for further investigation.
During the search and seizure operation on the suspect’s premises, 60 counterfeit iPhone silicone covers were confiscated. The accused, along with his company, were charged with 60 counts of contravening the Counterfeit Goods Act 37 of 1997, in conjunction with the Trade Marks Act 194 of 1993.
The Indian national was served with an A J175 summons to appear before the Gqeberha Magistrate’s Court. The case has been remanded to 4 September 2025 for ongoing proceedings.
In a separate operation in July, police seized counterfeit and illicit goods worth over R156 million, including Breitling watches, Springboks jerseys, caps, and Mamelodi Sundowns tops. The National Counterfeit and Illicit Goods unit, supported by various law enforcement agencies, conducted raids on shops in different locations to combat the sale of fake goods.
These efforts highlight the ongoing battle against counterfeit products in South Africa and the commitment of authorities to protect consumers and uphold intellectual property rights.
