$300 Million in Counterfeit Goods Seized in Kingston

Two people have been taken into custody by the Counter Terrorism & Organized Crime Investigations Branch (CTOC) following the seizure of $300 million worth of goods in Downtown, Kingston on Wednesday.

Assistant Superintendent of Police, Victor Barrett suspects that money from the sale of the counterfeit items may be fuelling organised crime. Brands such as Adidas, Nike, Fenty Burberry, and other brand name items were on sale at TMR Enterprise in Downtown Kingston- an imitation of them that is. Responding to a report from a rights holder, officers from the CTOC pounced on the store and seized hundreds of items.

From a warehouse, counterfeit items ranging from clothes and cosmetics to electronics and engine oil at an estimated value of 300 million Jamaican dollars. Two persons have been taken into custody, however, there are no plans to close the store as Barrett explains how the business owner supplies legitimate wares.

While many other stores may sell counterfeit items, the police are not at liberty to act unless there is a report. Customers are urged to spend their money on legitimate items to protect themselves and shun criminality. Watch the report below:

Reporter: Jhanielle Powell