Largest bust yet at border
Customs officials at the Lebombo Border Post prevented possible counterfeit shoes to the value of R11,3 million from entering the country on Thursday.
KOMATIPOORT – It is said to be the largest bust with the highest value of goods ever seized at this border post.
Over 14 000 pairs of undeclared sneakers destined for the South African market, were discovered by vigilant SARS customs officials after a suspicious-looking truck was searched. Upon inspection, the driver handed over documents that indicated that the truck and its trailer were empty.
Questioning led to the discovery that the vehicle contained thousands of pairs of sneakers. The truck was impounded at Lebombo state warehouse for further inspection. This 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 sneakers.
These were confiscated pending Intellectual Property Rights verification by the various brand holders. The driver was also detained to determine if he was liable for forfeiture. A case had been opened with the South African Police Services 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,” says SARS spokesman,
Mr Luther Lebelo.
