Hong Kong Customs yesterday (May 16) conducted an anti-counterfeiting operation to combat the sale of counterfeit jewellery. A total of 7 110 suspected counterfeit goods were seized, including jewellery, wallets and handbags with an estimated market value of about $400,000.
Customs earlier received information alleging the sale of counterfeit jewellery at fixed hawker pitches in Mong Kok. After in-depth investigation with the assistance of the trademark owner, Customs officers took enforcement action yesterday and raided five fixed hawker pitches in the district. The batch of suspected counterfeit goods were also seized.
During the operation, one man and three women were arrested, including one stall owner and three salespersons, aged from 30 to 41.
Investigations are ongoing.
Customs will continue to step up inspection and enforcement to combat sale of counterfeit goods.
Customs reminds consumers to procure goods at reputable shops and to check with the trademark owners or their authorised agents if the authenticity of a product is in doubt.
Customs also reminds traders to be cautious and prudent in merchandising since the sale of counterfeit goods is a serious crime and offenders are liable to criminal sanctions.
Under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, any person who sells or possesses for sale any goods with a forged trademark commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for five years.
Members of the public may report any suspected infringing activities to Customs' 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).
Ends/Friday, May 17, 2019
