Customs

Customs officials confiscated undeclared sneakers with an estimated street value of R11.3 million at the Lebombo border post on Thursday, 9 July 2015. This is the largest bust, with the highest value ever seized at the Lebombo border post.

The branded sneakers, potentially counterfeit, destined for the South African market from Mozambique, were discovered by vigilant Sars Customs officials when they stopped a truck in the cargo bypass area for further inspection. Documentation handed over by the driver indicated that the truck and its trailer were empty.

Following questioning of the truck driver, Customs officials discovered that the truck and its trailer contained boxes of sneakers which had not been declared. The vehicle was detained at Lebombo State Warehouse for further inspection. A full inspection of the vehicle and trailer led to the discovery of: 2 948 Pairs of Nike; 920 Pairs of Puma; 3 415 Pairs of Adidas; and 6 884 Pairs of All Stars.

The sneakers were detained pending Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) verification by the various brand holders. The truck was also detained to determine if it was liable for forfeiture. A case has been opened with the South African Police Service for further investigation.

This is a major seizure by Sars Customs who implement daily inspections at all Ports of Entry in an effort to foil the smuggling of goods. Sars will continue to work with other law enforcement agencies to protect the country and its citizens by disrupting organised crime and reducing illicit trade activities.