Police torch fake brands

The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has defended its decision to destroy millions of dollars worth of counterfeit clothing and footwear, arguing that the illicit trade helps to finance gangs and other violent criminal activities.

In addition to clothing and footwear, the policed destroyed illegal cigarettes and other counterfeit consumer products. Police said the items had previously been seized during targeted enforcement operations against illicit trade networks.

Deputy Superintendent of Police Troy Duare, commander of the Transnational Crime Investigation Division of the JCF, said the destruction was necessary to prevent the seized goods from re-entering the marketplace and to strike at a source of funding for criminal organisations.

“The manufacturing and sale of fake goods serve as direct channels for financing gangs and supporting other violent criminal activities,” Duare said.

“Apart from the economic harm, these unregulated products, especially illicit cigarettes and poorly made clothing, present serious health and safety hazards to the public,” he reasoned.

Duare said destruction of the items demonstrates the police’s commitment to “destroying the financial base of these criminal organisations while safeguarding Jamaican citizens”.

President of the JCC Emile Leiba welcomed the operation, saying the removal of counterfeit goods from circulation was important to consumers, legitimate businesses and the Government.

“The destruction of seized illicit products sends a clear message that counterfeit and illegal goods have no place in Jamaica’s legitimate marketplace,” Leiba stated.

“Removing these products from circulation protects consumers, supports compliant businesses and safeguards government revenue critical for national development,” he added.