Government, police and business unite to fight illicit trade draining South Africa’s economy
By Thembi Moyo
Johannesburg, Government, business and law enforcement have called for stronger collaboration to fight financial crime and illicit trade, warning that these criminal networks are costing South Africa billions and threatening jobs, investment and public services.
The appeal came during the Collective Action Against Financial Crime Dialogue held in Hyde Park this week, co-hosted by British American Tobacco South Africa (BATSA) and the Consumer Goods Council of South Africa (CGCSA). The dialogue brought together officials from government, police and the private sector to develop practical solutions to corruption, money laundering and the illegal trade of goods.
CGCSA Chief Executive Zinhle Tyikwe said South Africa can no longer afford to ignore the impact of financial crime, which drains funds meant for schools, healthcare and infrastructure. She said stronger cooperation between government and industry is essential to rebuild trust and strengthen the economy.
Border Management Authority (BMA) Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato said tighter border controls and smarter intelligence sharing are key to stopping the movement of illicit goods across the country’s entry points. He added that criminals are adapting quickly and that South Africa needs technology-driven systems to match that sophistication.
Closing the dialogue, Deputy National Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili who also chairs the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) said the scale of financial crime is alarming. In 2024 alone, the Financial Intelligence Centre recorded more than R155 billion in illicit financial flows.
She said financial crime “is not victimless”, warning that every counterfeit purchase or illegal deal “takes away from the revenue that builds schools, creates jobs and keeps our communities safe.” Mosikili praised ongoing law-enforcement operations such as Operation Shanela and the National Counterfeit Goods Unit for confiscating millions of rand worth of fake and illegal products.
She urged South Africans to play their part by refusing to support illegal trade and by reporting suspicious activity. “Fighting financial crime is everyone’s responsibility,” she said. “Only through partnership and accountability can we protect our economy and restore public confidence.”
