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Fake trainers seized at crossing points

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SBA Customs officials seized counterfeit goods at crossing points, SBA authorities said on Thursday.

Over the past month, several seizures of fake designer trainers have been made as individuals look to exploit the counterfeit market in the occupied areas.

Head of SBA Customs and Immigration in Dhekelia, Mark Hartley, explained: “Whilst commercial quantities of counterfeit footwear have previously been detected and seized at the crossing points many of the recent seizures are opportunistic individuals who are looking for a cheap deal.

“With an ever-increasing cost of living, travellers are looking to exploit the prevalent counterfeit market in the north to purchase designer goods at a reduced cost.”

The counterfeit production of fake Nike, Adidas and Armani trainers can also be linked to money laundering and human trafficking Hartley said.

“It is estimated that the value of the counterfeited goods market makes up around seven per cent of the annual world trade ($600 Billion). This illicit market is heavily controlled by organised crime groups with links to money laundering and corruption.

“It is known that migrants have been smuggled into countries, coerced into selling counterfeit goods, whilst children are exploited for their labour in the production of counterfeit items. Often as young as six, children are forced into illegally working in violent and hazardous conditions.”

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