SA: Four Zimbabwean nationals arrested over counterfeit petroleum products

By Jonisayi Maromo, IOL News

SOUTH AFRICA: Police said four Zimbabwean nationals were arrested in Centurion with counterfeit petroleum oil products worth over R200 000.

According to police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk, a team obtained a search and seizure warrant and proceeded to the identified address in Monavoni, a suburb on the outskirts of Centurion, Gauteng.

The operation was a joint effort, with members from the National Counterfeit Unit and Commercial Crimes Investigations (CCI) working hand in hand with brand protectors to operationalize the gathered information.

As a result of this operation, over 3000 litres of petroleum oil, imitating well-known brands, were seized. Subsequently, four Zimbabwean nationals were arrested. The Department of Home Affairs will now verify their residency status. 

“The suspects are expected to appear before a Magistrates’ Court on charges of contravening the Counterfeit Goods Act 37 of 1997.”