Hong Kong Customs conducted a special operation yesterday afternoon (July 5) and smashed an upstairs showroom selling suspected counterfeit products in Mong Kok. About 3 000 pieces of suspected counterfeit goods with an estimated market value of about $1.2 million were seized.
Customs recently suspected counterfeit products were sold in an upstairs showroom in Mong Kok. After in-depth investigation, Customs officers took enforcement action and cracked down on the upstairs showroom yesterday. The showroom, in a residential flat, was not open to the public and only served acquainted customers.
During the operation, about 3 000 pieces of suspected counterfeit products, including clothing, shoes, watches and eyeglasses, were seized. A 42-year-old man was arrested. Investigation is ongoing.
Customs reminds traders to be cautious in merchandising because the sale of counterfeit goods is a serious crime and offenders are liable to criminal sanctions. Customs also appeals to consumers to procure items at reputable shops and to check with trademark owners or their authorised agents if the authenticity of a product is in doubt.
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 the Customs 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
Ends/Thursday, July 6, 2017
