JOHOR BARU: Police have confiscated over 400 counterfeit goods worth RM1.4mil during a raid on a premises at Kompleks Austin Perdana.
Johor police chief Comm M. Kumar stated that the raid was conducted on Tuesday (Dec 10) at 10.30am by the Johor Special Branch.
"During the inspection, five individuals aged between 20 and 47, including the caretaker and employees of the premises, were present.
The team discovered counterfeit branded items such as clothing, bags, shoes, hats, belts, and wallets stored at the premises.
These items were sold online via social media platforms over the past four years, with prices ranging from RM350 to RM500 per item," he said in a statement on Wednesday (Dec 11).
Comm Kumar added that the counterfeit goods were believed to have been imported from overseas.
"A total of 419 items were confiscated, with an estimated value of RM1,412,000.
"The syndicate's modus operandi involved conducting sales during midday and nighttime while remaining vigilant for the presence of authorities, ready to flee if any suspicious activity was detected," he said.
The case is being investigated under Section 102(1)(c) of the Trade Marks Act 2019 for possessing goods with falsely applied registered trademarks for trade purposes.
If convicted, the individuals involved may face a fine of up to RM10,000 per item, imprisonment of up to three years, or both.
The case has been referred to the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) for further action.
The Johor Police Contingent urges the public not to purchase counterfeit items on social media platforms and to remain vigilant.
Members of the public are encouraged to report any information regarding such activities to the authorities.