Border Management Authority (BMA) border guards arrested two suspects and seized counterfeit goods worth more than R2.8 million at the Kosi Bay Port of Entry on the Mozambique–South Africa line. The arrests followed a stop-and-search of a truck entering South Africa on Monday.
Officers say the driver and assistant, both Mozambican, claimed they were carrying cooking pots and towels. A detailed inspection found concealed counterfeit items. SAPS verified the goods as fake; both suspects were detained at Manguzi SAPS.
Seized items
- 100 boxes of Afzal hookah pipe flavours
- Branded sneakers
- 1,000+ pairs of Nike sandals
- Louis Vuitton belts
Charges
The pair face counts under the Counterfeit Goods Act 37 of 1997 and the Tobacco Products Control Act 83 of 1993. Context
The BMA reported related action in April–June 2025: 32 bales of counterfeit clothing and 201 pairs of footwear (valued at R1,098,000) seized at Lebombo and Kosi Bay, plus counterfeit cigarettes worth an estimated R1,143,720 at Van Rooyen, Lebombo and Caledonspoort. The BMA flagged ongoing cooperation with SAPS, SANDF and SARS against illicit trade.
