Acting on information, Hong Kong Customs yesterday (December 23) conducted a strike-and-search operation in Kwun Tong and Ngau Tau Kok and smashed a wholesale syndicate suspected of storing for sale counterfeit medicines, poisons and pharmaceutical products containing dangerous drugs.
The number of pills seized in the operation was estimated to be 400 000. A 49-year-old man, who was suspected to be the mastermind of the syndicate, was arrested.
The Group Head (Intellectual Property Investigation (Operations)), Mr Wong Yim-pui, said at a press conference today (December 24) that unscrupulous traders might stock a large quantity of medicines for supplying the market with the approach of the Christmas and New Year holidays. Customs will continue to combat counterfeit pharmaceutical products with strict enforcement actions, especially during public holidays, and co-operate closely with relevant government departments and organisations. Customs reminded traders that possessing counterfeit medicines for sale is a serious crime and offenders are liable to criminal sanctions.
Under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, any person who sells or possesses for sale any goods with any forged trademark commits an offence. Upon conviction, offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for five years.
Under the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance, any person who possesses any poison included in Part 1 of the Poisons List other than in accordance with provisions commits an offence. Upon conviction, offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $100,000 and imprisonment for two years.
Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, drug trafficking is a serious offence. The maximum penalty is life imprisonment and a fine of $5 million.
Anyone with information relating to the sale of suspected counterfeit medicines may call Customs via the 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
Ends/Thursday, December 24, 2015