Fake car parts worth R500K found

THE Hawks have discovered more fake car parts and accessories in Johannesburg.

They said the items found were worth over R500 000.

Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Philani Nkwalase said the counterfeit parts were discovered at three businesses in Boksburg last week.

“The Intellectual Property Rights Section attached to the Serious Commercial Crime Investigation team and Tactical Operations Management Section (Toms), both from the Hawks head office, working together with brand protector experts from Spoor & Fisher Attorneys, executed a searchand-seizure operation.

“The operation, in line with the Counterfeit Goods Act 37 of 1997, was directed at three businesses trading in the Lifestyle Centre in Boksburg following a systematic investigation into dealing in counterfeit vehicle parts and accessories sold under the guise of genuine Ford branded products.”

Nkwalase said the search was preceded by a test purchase of products to secure a successful search warrant. Large quantities of vehicle parts and accessories bearing the Ford brand and logo were found.

“The suspects, aged 25 and 29, will at a later stage be served with J175 summons to appear in court for contravention of the Counterfeit Goods Act,” he said.

Last month, a warehouse with fake car spares worth R5 million was uncovered in Tulisa Park, Johannesburg.

The counterfeit parts were sold to motorists under the guise of genuine NSK products.