The counterfeit goods (illicit cigarettes) found by Pretoria Central law enforcement photo supplied
By Constable Thabang Nkhumise
Corporate Communications SAPS
Two male suspects appeared in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday regarding charges of possession of counterfeit goods (illicit cigarettes)
A normal daily stop-and-search operation by the Pretoria Central Police Station crime prevention team led to the arrest of the two men at Eufees Road on Friday 14 November 2025 at around 10.am.
The team, led by Warrant Officer Samuels and comprising Constable Nyalunga( reservist), patrollers J Mashego, M Modike, H Choung, C Hlatswayo, M Petja and K Maine, stopped a white Volkswagen Crafter with two occupants and upon searching the vehicle they discovered several boxes containing packets of cigarettes.
After timid questioning it was discovered that the occupants didn’t have valid documentation to transport and trade in cigarettes.
Seizure of illicit products expert Captain Masemola was called to the scene and he confirmed that the measures regarding the trade in cigarettes, including licensing, did not meet the legal requirements.
The two suspects were immediately taken to the Pretoria Central Police Station where a case was opened against them and thereafter they were released after paying a fine.
Pretoria Central Police Station Commander Brigadier Hlengani Mashaba has welcomed the arrest of the two men and urged the public to refrain from being involved in illicit trading of products as this costs the country billions I’m lost excise and VAT revenue annually.
Brigadier Hlengani further urged the community to report any wrongdoing and that they can do so anonymously by dialling the following numbers:
Crime Stop08600 10111
SAPS Emergency number10111.
Mobile Emergency number 112
Download MySAPS App or directly contact the Pretoria Central Police Station on 012 353 5001
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