Major Counterfeit Goods Bust on Costa del Sol
In a significant operation, Spain’s National Police force teams operating on the Costa del Sol have confiscated 804 counterfeit leather goods. The fake “branded” items were being sold at a shop in the popular tourist destination of Marbella.
Two Arrested in Connection with Counterfeit Operation
The operation led to the arrest of two individuals: a woman who managed the shop and a man from the province of Cadiz, who is suspected of supplying the counterfeit luxury items. The police action was initiated following a complaint lodged by a legal representative of several brands affected by the illegal activity.
Counterfeit Goods Traced Back to Asian Companies
Investigations revealed that the pair procured the counterfeit leather goods via online sales pages from Asian companies. They then sold these items in the Marbella shop, falsely representing them as genuine products.
Scientific Unit Confirms Goods as Counterfeit
A detailed report from the National Police’s scientific unit confirmed the counterfeit nature of the goods. The report stated that the items had replicated the unique logos of the trademark holders, a clear violation of intellectual property rights.
Additional Seizures Made at Cadiz Residence
As part of the operation, police also searched the residence of the arrested man in La Línea de la Concepción, Cadiz. They seized additional counterfeit items including bags, belts, wallets, and rucksacks, all bearing the trademarks of high-end brands.