The Mumbai Police have uncovered a large-scale racket selling counterfeit mobile accessories in Ghatkopar. During the raids, authorities seized fake products worth approximately Rs 16.33 lakh and filed cases against six shopkeepers allegedly involved in the operation.
The crackdown followed intelligence reports that several shops in Ghatkopar East were selling fake Apple accessories as original items. Police teams focused on the Patel Chowk and Niloyog Mall areas, where these products were reportedly being sold openly.
Coordinated raids
To ensure swift action, police formed six separate teams and conducted simultaneous raids across different locations. This prevented the accused from escaping and allowed authorities to recover a large quantity of counterfeit goods.
The seized items included mobile chargers, adapters, USB cables, mobile covers, back panels, earphones, Air-Pods, and batteries. Officials noted that the products closely resembled genuine Apple accessories, making it difficult for customers to distinguish between real and fake items.
Investigation and legal action
Preliminary investigations revealed that the shopkeepers procured the counterfeit items at low prices and sold them at higher rates, using Apple’s logo and designs without authorisation. Company representatives confirmed that all recovered products were fake and stated that identifying such items requires specialised training.
The six accused have been booked under Sections 51 and 63 of the Copyright Act. The seized goods have been sealed and sent for further examination, while police continue to investigate and track other individuals linked to the racket.
Officials emphasised that similar drives against counterfeit products will continue across Mumbai to protect consumers and curb the illegal sale of fake branded goods.
(With IANS Inputs)
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