HONG KONG: Hong Kong Customs conducted an operation between March 17 and 21 to combat the sale of counterfeit shampoos. More than 3 200 bottles of suspected counterfeit shampoos with an estimated market value of about $138,000 were seized. Customs earlier received information alleging the sale of suspected counterfeit shampoos in the market. After investigation, Customs officers took enforcement action in various districts of Hong Kong between March 17 and 21. During the operation, more than 3 200 bottles of suspected counterfeit shampoo were seized from three pharmacies located in Yuen Long and Tuen Mun as well as two storages located in Yuen Long and To Kwa Wan. Seven men and one woman, including five shop owners and three salespersons aged between 21 and 46, were arrested. Investigation is ongoing and the arrested persons have been released on bail pending further investigation.
Customs appeals to consumers to procure products at reputable shops and to check with the trademark owners or their authorised agencies if authenticity of the product is in doubt. Traders should be cautious and prudent in merchandising since the sale of counterfeit goods is a serious crime and liable to criminal sanctions. Under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, any person who sells or possesses for sale any goods with forged trademarks commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for five years.
