Well I'm speaking from first hand experience in a state where a permit to possess is not required. The stories you heard, did you ever stop to wonder why the items were seized in the first place if it's common knowledge amongst customs officers that there is no permit to possess required in that state?
"Hey you seized my goods, im allowed to own here in sa"
"Oh really good sir? Yeah we know, we just did this for shits and giggles and will release your goods to you"