Cops seize over Dh100 million worth of fake goods in UAE

More than Dh100 million worth of counterfeit products, which were being sold in the capital, have been seized by the Abu Dhabi Police, authorities announced on Sunday.
The Abu Dhabi Police said the products were in commercial markets. Some of the products were copied from 31 "prestigious" brands.
Authorities said that they began their operation from January of this year.
The products included gold, medical devices, various vehicles parts, smoking supplies including electronics, miscellaneous accessories, clothing, perfume, glasses, watches, bags, wallets, and shoes.
Brigadier Mohammed Suhail Al Rashidi, acting director of the Criminal Security Sector of the Abu Dhabi Police explained that seizing the products were conducted by the Economic Crimes Department of the Criminal Investigations Department. He pointed out that the shops were raided after completing all legal procedures and verifying the location of the counterfeit goods.
Brigadier Al Rashid stressed the dangers of unsafe goods, which harm the reputation of international companies. He said the clandestine storage of the goods are against public safety regulations. Their storage may cause fire and other safety hazards, he added.
Brigadier Al Rashid urged consumers not to buy fake goods marked with slogans identical to the original products.He also called on consumers to communicate with authorities, instead of paying money for counterfeit goods.
The Abu Dhabi Police said they are keen on protecting consumers, and catch sellers who resort to big profits through commercial fraud.
Authorities said that those selling fake goods and harm the business sector will face penalties and be referred to judicial authorities. The Abu Dhabi Police called on companies to report any cases that may harm their commercial interests and help authorities combat the spread of counterfeit products.
jasmine@khaleejtimes.com