One million sneakers seized in counterfeit bust
- November 15, 2006 1:18 PM
- By Commodities
Nearly one million pairs of knock-off Nike sneakers are being incinerated in Germany, following what is being touted as the world's largest bust of counterfeit goods.
Customs officers in Hamburg began their sweep in late August. Over the past three months, officials have confiscated a total of 117 shipping containers packed with fake goods. Officials estimate the total haul to be worth about $490 million US.
A total of 945,384 pairs of counterfeit Nike sneakers, 105,000 fake Adidas and Puma shoes, 76,760 phoney watches and 1,454 toys were seized.
The goods, shipped from Asia, were addressed to recipients in Italy, Austria and Hungary. Officers said some of the addresses were fictitious.
All of the items will be sent to incineration facilities for disposal. Customs officials said no legal action would be taken until the brand-name companies pursue the alleged smugglers.
With files from the Associated Press
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