The operation, carried out by agents from the Fiscal and Border Patrol of Sagunto, is part of ongoing efforts against counterfeiting and intellectual property infringement. During inspections of various businesses in l'Horta Sud, agents identified a store in Xirivella displaying products that appeared to be from major brands.
The items, which featured logos and emblems identical or very similar to those of registered trademarks, were being sold at a significantly lower price than genuine products. This discrepancy prompted agents to inspect the establishment.
In total, 419 items were seized, primarily handbags, clothing, and footwear. The estimated market value of these products, if authentic, would exceed 84,000 euros, a figure still pending valuation by the affected brands.
The store manager, a 47-year-old Spanish woman, is under investigation as the alleged perpetrator of an intellectual property crime. After her statement was taken, the case proceedings were handed over to the Civil and Instruction Section of the Mislata Court.
This type of action not only protects brand rights but also consumers, as counterfeit products often bypass quality and safety controls, potentially incorporating unsuitable materials.
The Civil Guard has reiterated that the sale of counterfeit products not only violates intellectual property rights but also endangers consumers, as these items often fail to meet quality and safety standards. Furthermore, this practice fosters unfair competition, reduces legitimate revenue, limits investment, and harms employment in the commercial sector.
