Mpumalanga raid in Kanyamazane seizes counterfeit goods, 13 undocumented nationals arrested

Police in Mpumalanga carried out a joint law enforcement operation in Kanyamazane that led to the seizure of counterfeit and illicit goods, the closure of a non-compliant warehouse and the arrest of 13 undocumented foreign nationals.

What officers found during the raid

Acting on a search and seizure warrant, the operation recovered 419 packets of illicit cigarettes and more than 10,000 counterfeit skin‑lightening creams and medication. The total value of the seized goods was estimated at R20,950.

Who took part in the operation

The raid was led by the Mpumalanga Counterfeit Task Team and included several South African Police Service units and government departments: Crime Intelligence, the Tactical Response Team (TRT), the Pienaar Public Order Policing Unit, the White River K9 Unit, the Department of Home Affairs and Ehlanzeni District Municipal Health Inspectors.

Closure and arrests

Police issued a permanent closure notice for the warehouse under the applicable Health and Safety Regulations because of non‑compliance. During the operation, 13 undocumented foreign nationals were arrested after being found in possession of invalid passports.

Official purpose of the operation

Authorities said the operation formed part of ongoing efforts to combat the trade in counterfeit and illicit goods, enforce immigration laws and protect consumers from potentially harmful products.

Items seized (as reported)

• 419 packets of illicit cigarettes
• More than 10,000 counterfeit skin‑lightening creams and medication

Details in this report are based on information released by law enforcement following the Kanyamazane operation.