The government says it views the attack on police officers in the Johannesburg CBD by foreign shop owners this week as an attack on the State.
Ministers in the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security cluster say the attacks, which saw shop owners stone police officers and vehicles during a raid to seize counterfeit goods being sold at outlets, will not go unpunished.
They say in a statement blatant disregard for the law threatens national security and the sovereignty of the nation.
The ministers said the crackdown on the illicit economy was needed as it resulted in a loss in sales and profits of genuine goods and brands, and could pose health risks to ordinary consumers.
The JCPS cluster will liaise with the Department of International Relations to engage embassies to encourage their citizens to respect South Africa's laws.
