The Customs and Excise Department seized about 6,800 suspected counterfeit hard drives, estimated to be worth about HK$50 million, during searches of five industrial units in Tuen Mun on 15 October. The units included two suspected processing workshops and three suspected storage sites. Officers also found 20,000 used drives awaiting processing.
Customs said the suspected group bought used drives, removed their original labels with substances including adhesive remover, then formatted and tested them using dedicated equipment. It allegedly fitted the drives with branded labels and placed them in anti-static bags to make them appear new for sale.
The workshops were divided into storage, processing and formatting areas, alongside sleeping and cooking areas, a toilet and a shower. Customs believed the setup let members work on the drives around the clock without leaving, while reducing their exposure in public places where they might be detected.
Six people were arrested. Customs said some would be provisionally charged with possessing counterfeit goods for sale or commercial use and breaching a condition of stay. They were due to appear at Sha Tin Magistrates’ Court on 17 October.
Customs advised consumers to buy from reputable shops or websites, and to check with the relevant trademark owner or agent if they are unsure whether a product is genuine.