In a significant operation targeting counterfeit merchandise, Customs officers seized approximately 5,000 fake items, including cosmetics and skincare products, valued at around HK$330,000. The operation, which spanned ten shops across the territory, resulted in the arrest of eight individuals, aged 20 to 46, including key personnel from a claw machine shop.
This crackdown marks a notable first for Customs, as it uncovered counterfeit perfumes being offered at a claw machine establishment—an unusual venue for such illicit goods. According to a Customs spokesman, the shop falsely advertised the perfumes as testers, a misleading claim since genuine perfumes do not have tester versions available for retail.
The seized counterfeit perfumes, priced between HK$30 and HK$350, were being sold at a significant discount, ranging from 20% to 50% less than their authentic counterparts. This price disparity raises concerns about consumer safety, prompting authorities to send the seized products to government laboratories for analysis to determine whether they contain harmful substances.
All eight suspects were arrested under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance for applying a false trade description and have since been released on bail. The Customs spokesman emphasized the agency’s commitment to combating counterfeit goods, warning consumers to remain vigilant when purchasing items, particularly in unregulated venues.
As the crackdown continues, authorities are poised to monitor the situation closely, underscoring the importance of protecting both consumer rights and public health in the ongoing battle against counterfeit merchandise.
