A Mozambican national has been fined R150 000 after attempting to smuggle counterfeit sportswear worth more than R12 million into South Africa.

Eurico Zandamela (46) was arrested at the Lebombo Port of Entry in February 2024 when officials uncovered the fake goods hidden in his truck trailer. The items, which included brands such as Adidas, Nike, Puma and Diesel, were seized and forfeited to the state.

Zandamela was sentenced by the Mbombela Specialised Commercial Crimes Court on Tuesday, 30 September, after pleading guilty. Half of his sentence was suspended for five years, provided he does not commit a similar offence.

A security guard, Sibusiso Ngwenya (32), who allegedly assisted Zandamela, pleaded not guilty. His case was postponed to 11 December 2025.

Major General Nico Gerber, Provincial Head of the Hawks in Mpumalanga, praised the vigilance of the Port of Entry officials. “People who bring counterfeit goods, including food and medicines, collapse our economy and put people’s lives at risk,” he said.