Another Hong Kong counterfeit ring in custody

Customs has smashed another Hong Kong counterfeiting syndicate, this one operating from Tung Choi Street in Mong Kok.

About 2600 items of suspected counterfeit goods – including handbags, wallets and belts with an estimated market value of about HKD4.3 million (US$548,000) – were seized during the raid of a fixed hawker pitch and a storage facility.

Customs had earlier received information alleging the sale of counterfeit goods at a fixed hawker pitch in Mong Kok. After an in-depth investigation with the assistance of the trademark owner, Customs officers took enforcement action that culminated in the raid. The batch of suspected counterfeit goods and one tablet for displaying photos of suspected counterfeit goods were seized.

During the operation, one female syndicate head and one male member of the Hong Kong counterfeit ring, both aged 46, were arrested. The investigation is ongoing.

Customs says it will continue to step up inspection and enforcement to combat the sale of counterfeit goods, and reminds consumers to procure goods at reputable shops and to check with the trademark owners or their authorized agents if the authenticity of a product is in doubt.

Customs also reminds traders to be cautious and prudent in merchandising, describing the sale of counterfeit goods as a serious crime with offenders 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 ($64,000) and imprisonment for five years.