Hong Kong Customs combats online sale of counterfeit accessories (with photo)
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Customs earlier received information alleging that suspected counterfeit accessories had been put on sale through an online platform. Initial investigation found that a seller had set up a dedicated account on a social media platform to sell suspected counterfeit accessories.
After an in-depth investigation and with the assistance of the trademark owners, Customs officers yesterday raided a retail shop in Hung Hom and seized the batch of suspected counterfeit accessories.
During the operation, a 28-year-old woman was arrested.
An investigation is ongoing.
Customs appeals to consumers to purchase goods at shops or online shops with a good reputation and to check with the trademark owners or their authorised agents if the authenticity of a product is in doubt.
Customs reminds online sellers not to sell counterfeit goods and to be cautious and prudent in merchandising since selling 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 counterfeiting activities to Customs' 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or its dedicated crime reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).
Ends/Friday, October 7, 2022
Issued at HKT 16:40
Issued at HKT 16:40
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