With the approach of the Labour Day holiday, Hong Kong Customs mounted a two-week enforcement operation starting April 20 in various districts to combat the sale of counterfeit goods.
In the operation, Customs officers raided 21 retail shops and five stores so far. More than 4,500 counterfeit items worth more than $1 million were seized, including mobile phones and accessories, cosmetics, leather goods, clothing and watches. Nine men and seven women, aged from 24 to 49, including shopkeepers and sales persons, were arrested.
During the holiday, the department will continue to conduct inspections at hot shopping spots to protect consumers' rights.
Under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, it is a criminal offence for any person who sells or has in his/her possession for purpose of trade any goods with forged trade marks. The maximum penalty is a fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for five years.
Anyone who comes across any suspected counterfeiting activities can report to Customs by calling the Customs 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
Ends/Thursday, April 29, 2010
