HONG KONG: Hong Kong Customs conducted a strike-and-search operation in Sham Shui Po here the other day and successfully cracked down on various wholesale and retail outlets involved in the sale of suspected infringing and counterfeit goods. More than 2 ,700 pieces of suspected infringing and counterfeit goods valued at about $43,000 were seized.
Acting on information, Customs officers cracked down on two wholesale and two retail outlets in the operation with the seizure of more than 2 700 items of suspected infringing and counterfeit goods, including 430 suspected pirated inflatable lanterns, 2 170 suspected pirated toys and stationery items, and 120 suspected fake stationery items, valued at about $43,000 in total. Five women, aged between 33 and 52, were arrested.
They have been released on bail pending further investigation.
Hong Kong Customs will continue to take stringent enforcement actions to combat infringing activities. Members of the public are recommended to purchase at shops with good reputations. The Customs reminded traders that the sale of infringing and counterfeit goods is a serious crime and offenders are liable to criminal sanctions.
Under the Copyright Ordinance, it is an offence to sell or possess for sale infringing items.
Upon conviction, offenders are liable to a maximum punishment of imprisonment for four years and a fine of $50,000 for each infringing copy.
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 infringing activities may call Customs via the 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
