Six arrested in Hong Kong over World Cup counterfeit shirts | OneFootball

Six people have been arrested in Hong Kong after a customs operation targeting counterfeit World Cup merchandise.

Customs said they seized 230,000 items, including 30,000 suspected fake shirts, worth nearly $20 million, €17.2 million. They believe the activity is linked to surging fan demand ahead of the tournament, and checks will be stepped up.

About 80% of the haul was bound for North America, where the tournament begins on Thursday evening with Mexico v South Africa at 21:00 French time. Part of the consignment was intercepted at crossings between Hong Kong and mainland China.

Many shirts closely matched authentic models, making it hard for an average buyer to spot a fake. Some replicated the embossed texture of genuine kits, others had brand labels and individual packaging.

In March, local customs made a similar seizure of counterfeit shirts, including Argentina shirts, the reigning world champions.

Source: L'Équipe