Border Management Authority Seizes Counterfeit Goods Worth Over R2.8 Million at Kosi Bay

Kosi Bay, South Africa — The Border Management Authority (BMA) has intensified its crackdown on smuggling and counterfeit goods, following a major seizure at the Kosi Bay Port of Entry on 22 September 2025.

According to BMA Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato, officers intercepted a truck entering South Africa, uncovering counterfeit items with an estimated value of R2 815 548.

Details of the Arrest

The truck, driven by two Mozambican nationals, was initially reported to be transporting cooking pots and towels. However, a thorough inspection by BMA law enforcement officers revealed hidden counterfeit products, including:

• 100 boxes of Afzal hookah pipe flavours
• Branded sneakers from Adidas, Nike, and New Balance
• Over 1,000 pairs of Nike sandals
• Louis Vuitton belts

SAPS confirmed the goods as counterfeit. Both suspects were arrested, detained at Manguzi SAPS, and charged under the Counterfeit Goods Act 37 of 1997 and the Tobacco Products Control Act 83 of 1993.

READ: SAPS Dismantles R350 Million Crystal Meth Lab on Mpumalanga Farm, 5 Arrested |

BMA’s Ongoing Efforts Against Illicit Trade

Dr Masiapato commended the officers for their vigilance:

“The continuous interception of counterfeit goods at our ports of entry demonstrates the BMA’s resolve to secure South Africa against criminal syndicates. These counterfeit products not only undermine legitimate businesses and erode tax revenue but also compromise consumer safety.”

The Kosi Bay seizure is part of a broader campaign against illicit trade. In the first quarter of the 2025/26 financial year, the BMA confiscated:

• 32 bales of counterfeit clothing and 201 pairs of footwear at Lebombo and Kosi Bay, valued at R1 098 000
• Counterfeit cigarettes worth R1 143 720 at Van Rooyen, Lebombo, and Caledonspoort

READ: Security Fears Grow as Deported Criminals Could Flood Southern Africa

Commitment to Border Security

Dr Masiapato reaffirmed the Authority’s collaboration with SAPS, SANDF, and SARS to dismantle networks behind smuggling and illicit trade:

“The BMA is determined to secure our borders and ensure that criminal activities such as smuggling find no space in our country. Working together with our partners, we will protect South Africa’s economy and communities for a better South Africa.”

This latest seizure highlights the BMA’s dedication to consumer safety, economic protection, and law enforcement vigilance at South Africa’s ports of entry.

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