The South African Federation Against Copyright Theft (SAFACT) together with the South African Border Police and brand enforcement agencies conducted operations in the Fordsburg and surrounding areas over a three day period.
This came after intense focus driven investigation of an infamous supplier of counterfeit films and music who was identified and after a successful operation arrested and found in possession of over 3600 discs, packaged and ready for distribution on the streets of Gauteng.
The suspect appeared in court on Wednesday and the case remanded pending further investigation. Numerous other counterfeit products were also seized during this Blitz Operation.
Piracy kills jobs, opportunities and sustainable income for honest workers in the creative industry. Piracy is not only illegal but robs honest and legitimate businesses from their income. Consumers are warned that by buying pirated films they are effectively supporting organised crime and criminal syndicates. The loss to the entertainment industry is estimated at approximately R200 million per year.
SAFACT MD, Jacques Allers, warned criminals that actions will be taken against all perpetrators under the copyright legislation and in certain instances also for fraud.
