"Police arrested 15 suspects and recovered goods with a street value of R10 million in the early hours of Saturday morning," spokeswoman Captain Julia Claassen said.

She said the arrest followed a crime intelligence operation by the police in the Bekkersdal informal settlement.

"Seven properties were searched and police recovered illicit cigarettes and a range of counterfeit goods ranging from designer clothes, bags and sunglasses. Police also seized cash to the value of over R160 000."

The man, 34, and his 24-year-old wife were amongst those arrested and were charged under the tobacco controls act and the Counterfeit Goods Act.

Thirteen other men were arrested and charged under the illegal immigrants act.

All 15 are Mozambican and are expected to appear in court soon, said Claassen.