Record-breaking $1 billion counterfeit goods bust leads to 2 arrests in the US
Authorities in New York have apprehended two individuals involved in the record-breaking confiscation of counterfeit merchandise, including imitation luxury items valued at over $1 billion, marking the largest seizure of its kind in US history
Two individuals have been detained in what is considered the most extensive confiscation of counterfeit merchandise in the United States to date. This includes replica designer items, estimated to have a retail worth surpassing one billion dollars. Authorities in New York have confirmed the arrests of Adama Sow, 38, and Abdulai Jalloh, 48. They now face charges of engaging in the trafficking of counterfeit goods, as stated in the indictments and press release issued by the US Attorneys Office for the Southern District of New York.
Sow and Jalloh were both set a bond by the judge during a hearing on Wednesday. Sow's bond was set at $1 million, while Jalloh's bond was set at $500,000, according to court records. CNN attempted to contact the attorneys representing both Sow and Jalloh but has not received an immediate response.
Sow and Jalloh oversaw the trafficking operation from January to October, utilizing a storage facility located in Manhattan, as stated in the news release issued by the attorneys office. In addition, searches conducted at separate locations under the control of Sow and Jalloh yielded counterfeit goods, as per the prosecutors.
NY/ Two arrested in largest counterfeit goods seizure in Manhattan, retailing at more than $1B
U.S. Attorney's Office
Prosecutors announced the discovery of around 219,000 counterfeit products, including bags, clothes, shoes, and other items, worth an estimated retail value of $1.03 billion. US Attorney Damian Williams praised the office's dedication and collaboration with law enforcement in combating counterfeit trafficking in New York City.
The trafficking charge carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, the attorneys office said.
