Hong Kong seizes fake World Cup goods worth millions, arrests 13

Hong Kong customs officers arrested 13 people and seized counterfeit merchandise worth over HK$159 million (US$20.3 million) during a special operation targeting fake goods sold during the World Cup. The Customs and Excise Department announced on Monday that the eight-week operation, which ran from May 26 to Sunday, uncovered 50 cases of infringement. Officers confiscated about 240,000 suspected counterfeit items, including clothing, accessories, and other merchandise bearing fake logos of popular brands and World Cup-related trademarks. Authorities noted a worrying trend of young people getting involved in selling fake goods, lured by the promise of quick money. The department warned that selling counterfeit items is a serious crime that can lead to heavy fines and imprisonment. They urged the public to buy from legitimate sources and report suspicious sales. The operation was conducted across various retail points and online platforms. The arrests come as Hong Kong steps up enforcement against intellectual property theft, especially during major events like the World Cup, when demand for official merchandise is high. Investigations are ongoing, and more arrests may follow.