On September 26, the Komatipoort Magistrate’s Court granted bail to a man who had been arrested after allegedly trafficking R4.5 million in counterfeit products.

Vusi Victor Nkosi (38) was granted bail of R10,000.

Captain Dineo Sekgotodi of the Mpumalanga Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations (Hawks) says Nkosi was apprehended on the N4 near the Lebombo border on September 6.

The Hawks, along with the South African National Defence Force, Komatipoort SAPS, and SARS Customs and Excise personnel, were executing their usual responsibilities at the port of entry when they stopped and searched the truck Nkosi was driving. She stated that the truck was carrying two trailers and was travelling from Mozambique to South Africa.

During the search, counterfeit trainers labelled Nike, New Balance, Diesel, Lacoste, and Reebok were discovered, with an estimated street value of R4.5m.

He was charged with the infringement of the requirements of the Counterfeit Goods Act. The matter has been postponed to October 20 for affidavits from the brand holders and will be transferred to the Specialised Commercial Crime Court.

His bail conditions require him to report to the investigating officer once a week.