On August 13, 2024, the Nelspruit Specialised Commercial Crimes Court sentenced John Vuma, 40, and Mpumelelo Life Shabangu, 34, for their involvement in trafficking illicit and counterfeit goods across the South African border. Found guilty on 724 counts under the Customs and Excise Act, the duo faced charges for possession and transportation of counterfeit merchandise valued at approximately R 579,200.

The case unfolded following a coordinated operation on June 21, 2024, involving the Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation unit in Nelspruit, SANDF personnel from the Macadamia military base, SARS Customs officials at Komatipoort, and the State Prosecutor from the STU DPP at Lebombo Border post. The accused were apprehended while driving a white VW Crafter and a Toyota Quantum, both loaded with counterfeit Nike, Adidas, and Jordan sneakers.

Following their arrest and the seizure of the counterfeit goods, the vehicles were stored at the Komatipoort SARS Customs warehouse. The legal proceedings culminated in Vuma and Shabangu receiving a fine of R 150,000 each or an alternative of three years’ imprisonment, half of which is suspended for five years contingent upon no further violations of the Customs and Excise Act.

In addition to the personal penalties, the court has ordered the owner of the vehicles used in the smuggling to pay a fine and storage fees totaling R 120,000 to SARS once the case was concluded.

Major General Gerber of the Hawks praised the swift and effective handling of the case, highlighting the significance of protecting South Africa’s economy and consumers from the impacts of illegal trade practices. The confiscated goods were forfeited to the state, emphasizing the government’s commitment to combatting the influx of counterfeit products.