The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Eastern Cape has confiscated illicit pharmaceuticals and suspected counterfeit goods valued at approximately R2.2 million during a tactical operation in Korsten, Gqeberha, on Wednesday, 30 July 2025.
Acting on intelligence provided by the SAPS Sea Border Office, a multi-disciplinary team comprising Border Policing (CDSI Airport), K9 Unit, Crime Intelligence, and brand-holder agents executed searches at a wholesale in Durban Road and a warehouse on Daisy Road in Korsten. The operation targeted transnational criminal networks involved in the distribution of unlicensed and potentially hazardous goods.
Seized items include: 17 430 Viagra pills; 224 Viagra Jelly sachets; 2 640 Adcodol tablets; 6 480 Apetito tablets; 3 560 pregnancy test kits; 4 680 skin-whitening creams; 648 Colgate toothbrushes; 1 584 Kiwi Shoe Polish units; and 106 rodent traps. The total street value is estimated at R2 200 000 (Two Million Two Hundred Thousand Rand).
SAPS urgently warns the public against using unregulated pharmaceuticals and health products. Items such as erectile dysfunction medications, unregistered analgesics, and whitening creams may contain toxic substances or incorrect dosages, posing severe health risks in violation of the Medicines Act.
The operation concluded without injuries, property damage, or arrests. Investigations are ongoing to trace supply chains, with SAPS collaborating with the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) and brand holders to authenticate the seized goods.
Acting Provincial Commissioner of Eastern Cape Major General Thandiswa Kupiso stated: “This R2.2 million seizure disrupts criminal enterprises exploiting consumer safety for profit. We commend the integrated efforts of our units and private partners. The public must reject unregulated products – your health is not worth the risk.”
