Hong Kong Customs smashed a retail shop suspected of selling counterfeit goods in Admiralty on December 11 and seized goods valued at about $1.05 million.
Acting on information provided by members of the public, Customs conducted a strike-and-search operation at the shop, which provided tailor-made service of leather goods. It was found to have hidden storage for acquainted customers to select suspected counterfeit goods. In the operation, more than 600 items of suspected counterfeit goods valued at about $1.05 million, including leather goods, shoes and accessories, were seized. Two men, aged 47 and 60, were arrested. They have been released on bail pending further investigation.
The Divisional Commander of Intellectual Property General Investigation, Ms Phoebe Wong, today (December 17) said that Hong Kong Customs will continue to take stringent enforcement actions to combat counterfeiting activities. She appealed to members of the public to purchase at shops with good reputations and contact the distributor or make a report to Customs if the authenticity of their purchased goods is in doubt. She also reminded traders that selling counterfeit goods is a serious crime and offenders are liable to criminal sanctions.
Under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, it is an offence to sell or possess for sale any goods with any forged trademark. Upon conviction, offenders are liable to a maximum punishment of imprisonment for five years and a fine of $500,000.
Anyone with information relating to suspected counterfeiting activities may call Customs via the 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
Ends/Thursday, December 17, 2015