Counterfeit sneakers worth R3.5 million, including brands like Nike, Converse, and Jordan, confiscated during a late-night operation on the N4 near Komatipoort.
Image: supplied/SAPS
Police in Mpumalanga arrested a 34-year-old-man caught transporting fake sneakers worth R3.5 million on the N4 near Komatipoort.
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (known as the Hawks) arrested Willy Mxolise Mhlongo during a late-night operation after receiving intelligence about a suspected counterfeit goods shipment.
Police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Dineo Lucy Sekgotodi said the goods were being transported in a Toyota Quantum from Naas, Nkomazi to Gauteng.
"During the search, counterfeit sneakers valued at R3.5 million were found.
"These included 407 pairs of Nike sneakers, 559 pairs of All-Star sneakers, 80 pairs of Reebok sneakers, 244 pairs of New Balance sneakers, 92 pairs of Converse sneakers, and 354 pairs of Jordan sneakers."
Police said both the counterfeit goods and the Toyota Quantum were confiscated as evidence.
Mhlongo appeared in the Komatipoort Magistrate's Court where he was charged with fraud and contravening the Customs and Excise Act of 1964, as well as the Counterfeit Goods Act of 1997.
He was remanded in custody, and the case has been postponed to December 17, 2024 for a bail application and legal representation.
IOL
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