SOME P152 million worth of counterfeit footwear was seized in a raid conducted by the PNP Criminal Investigation Group (CIDG) in Pampanga last Saturday morning.
The operation also resulted in the seizure of molding plates, raw materials, machinery, sales invoices and order slips during the raid, according to CIDG Director Brig. Gen. Nicolas Torre III.
Raided was Apexel at Block 27, Global Aseana Park 2, Barangay San Pablo in San Simon that police said is engaged in the production of counterfeit Crocs footwear.
The raid was conducted by virtue of a search warrant issued by a Manila court for violation of Republic Act 8293 or the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines.
A Chinese, identified only as Chongjian, who reportedly operated the counterfeit production right, is at large.
Seized during the raid were 45,000 pairs of counterfeit Crocs footwear, the CIDG said.
The raid was conducted in the presence of representatives of Crocs and local government officials.
The seized items were turned over to the custody of Crocs for safekeeping, pending a “clarificatory hearing,” the CIDG said.
Torre vowed to hold accountable the people behind the operation.
“The CIDG remains committed to intensifying efforts to combat the production and sale of counterfeit goods, uphold intellectual property rights, and protect legitimate businesses,” said Torre.
PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil said the operation “demonstrates our unwavering commitment to uphold the rule of law and protect the interests of businesses and consumers.”
“Counterfeit goods not only undermine legitimate enterprises but also pose significant risks to public safety,” said Marbil.
Marbil commended the CIDG, the local government unit and Crocs “for their diligence and collaborative efforts in this significant achievement.”
“We will continue to intensify our operations to combat all forms of illegal activities and ensure that justice prevails,” said Marbil.
