Hong Kong Customs officers have seized more than 3200 bottles of counterfeit shampoos after a five-day operation across the city.

The shampoo, whose branding was not revealed, had an estimated value of $138,000.  

Following a tip-off, customs officers seized stock from three pharmacies located in Yuen Long and Tuen Mun as well as two storages located in Yuen Long and To Kwa Wan. Seven men and one woman, including five shop owners and three salespersons aged between 21 and 46, were arrested.

The investigation is ongoing and the arrested persons have been released on bail.

In a statement, customs appealed to consumers to buy products at reputable shops and to check with the trademark owners or their authorised agencies if authenticity of the product is in doubt.

“Traders should be cautious and prudent in merchandising since the sale of counterfeit goods is a serious crime and liable to criminal sanctions.”

Under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, any person who sells or possesses for sale any goods with forged trademarks commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for five years.