Counterfeit goods seized in Stanley retail raids
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Hong Kong Customs seized about 1300 fake branded items with a street value estimated at $600,000 during Stanley retail raids yesterday.
The raid followed an earlier patrol where officers found suspected counterfeit goods were being sold at retail shops in the seaside suburb.
The goods seized included handbags, leather products and clothing.
A Customs spokesperson said that with the assistance of trademark owner, Customs officers took enforcement action, raiding two retail shops and one storage facility in the district.
One man and two women were arrested – a shop owner and two salespersons, all aged between 34 and 47.
The investigation is ongoing.
Customs has previously said it will continue to step up inspection and enforcement to combat the sale of counterfeit goods and the number of raids in the territory has increased this year.
“Customs 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 liability,” said the spokesperson.
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.
Questions & Answers
Q.What items did Customs officers find during the raids?
What items did Customs officers find during the raids?
Customs officers seized approximately 1300 fake branded items. These included handbags, leather products, and clothing that were suspected to be counterfeit goods from two retail shops and one storage facility.
Q.How many people were arrested in connection with the counterfeit goods?
How many people were arrested in connection with the counterfeit goods?
Three individuals were arrested during the raids: one man and two women. These were identified as a shop owner and two salespersons, all aged between 34 and 47 years old.
Q.What is the maximum penalty for selling goods with a forged trademark?
What is the maximum penalty for selling goods with a forged trademark?
Under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, offenders face a maximum penalty of a $500,000 fine and up to five years imprisonment. Selling counterfeit goods is considered a serious crime.
Q.What triggered Customs to conduct the raids in Stanley?
What triggered Customs to conduct the raids in Stanley?
The raids followed an earlier patrol where officers observed suspected counterfeit goods being sold at retail shops in the seaside suburb. This initial discovery prompted the subsequent enforcement action.
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