Around BRL 3 million in goods were seized on Wednesday (5) during an operation to combat the sale of counterfeit products. The operation is taking place in Palmas and Brasília. Three arrest and seizure warrants are being served in some stores.
The investigation began following complaints from law firms representing electronics brands, including Apple, Samsung and Motorola.
One of the stores under investigation is on Avenida Juscelino Kubitschek, Palmas' main shopping center, next to the city hall building. Another shop in the same area also had products seized. Warrants were also served in Taquaralto, in the southern region of Palmas.
Operation Spuria, as it was named, is being carried out by the Brazilian Federal Revenue Service in conjunction with the Federal District Civil Police and the Federal Highway Police. The investigation seeks to dismantle criminal organizations that use this type of trade to launder money.
According to the complaint, some companies were selling pirated goods from these brands, which represents a danger to consumers due to the low quality and possible damage to health.
Participating in the action were 30 Federal Revenue officials, including auditors and analysts, 13 DF civil police officers and 20 highway police officers, who inspected 10 commercial establishments.