Hong Kong Customs conducted a special operation in Tai Po, Causeway Bay, and Jordan from Feb. 13 to 27, targeting the sale of counterfeit medicines. Approximately 14,000 suspected counterfeit items were seized, valued at around HK$850,000.
Following reports of counterfeit medicines being sold in markets, Customs launched an investigation. With assistance from trademark owners, officers raided three medicine shops, confiscating the suspected counterfeit products. In Jordan, officers, in collaboration with the Department of Health, also seized a quantity of suspected controlled medicines from a shop lacking a trader's license.
During the operation, four men aged 31 to 48 were arrested, including a shop owner and three salespersons. They have since been released on bail as investigations continue, with the possibility of further arrests. Samples of the suspected counterfeit goods will be sent to the Government Laboratory for safety testing.
Customs emphasized its commitment to intensifying inspections and enforcement against counterfeit goods. Consumers are advised to purchase from reputable shops and verify product authenticity with trademark owners if in doubt. Traders are warned to exercise caution, as selling counterfeit goods is a serious crime, punishable under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance with fines up to HK$500,000 and imprisonment for five years.
The public is encouraged to report suspected counterfeiting activities to Customs via their 24-hour hotline at 182 8080 or through their dedicated crime-reporting email and online form.
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