Hefty fines slapped on truckers in counterfeit goods case

R4.2m of cigarettes go up in smoke JOY ORLEK LAST WEEK’S Beit Bridge bonfire that saw nearly 12 million illegally imported cigarettes valued at R 4.2 million destroyed by Customs sent out a strong message to smugglers, as well as the transport industry. According to SARS spokesman Sechaba Nkosi, the heaviest fines were imposed on the transport companies or importers who employed the drivers carrying the counterfeit goods. Fines were based on the value of the consignment of cigarettes and ranged from R24 000 to more than R88 000. The cigarettes were destroyed at the Beit Bridge border post after being confiscated in a number of seizures by Customs officials in recent months. A total of 17 suspect smugglers were arrested during these operations and charged for contravening customs legislation. After being convicted in court, or in some cases after pleading guilty, all were fined. National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Makhosini Nkosi told FTW: “In terms of the law anyone driving a truck carrying counterfeit goods becomes an instrument of committing a crime, and the vehicle can then be confiscated by the state.”