Chicago Sun-Times reported that federal agents at O'Hare International Airport seized more than $1.2 million worth of counterfeit cell phones, game systems and other electronics earlier this month. The counterfeit products came from China and were bound for Florida.
The discovery occurred during routine examinations where U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at O'Hare seized 25 cartons of counterfeit merchandise. The cartons contained cell phones, head phones and gaming systems which clearly infringed on trademarks recorded with Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The product was estimated to have a retail value of $1.25 million and a domestic value of $1.17 million.
The shipment originated in China and was destined for Florida. CBP selected the cartons for examination after CBP officers became suspicious of documentation submitted for the cargo. Upon physical inspection, more than 9,400 name-brand consumer electronic items bearing names including Sony, LG, BlackBerry and Nintendo were discovered.
After determining the items violated trademark laws, the shipment was seized.
No arrests had been made as of Thursday in connection with the seizure.
Comments