Three men, between the ages of 41 and 49, were arrested on May 28 for their suspected involvement in importing counterfeit cigarettes.

Investigations revealed that the men had imported more than 1.5 million packets of counterfeit cigarettes in the three containers, estimated to be worth more than S$1.1 million.

Three containers of counterfeit cigarettes ceased

According to a joint news release by the Singapore Police Force and Singapore Customs on June 2, Singapore Customs had seized three containers containing counterfeit cigarettes on March 20, after having been notified by the right holder of the trademark.

The goods had been imported into Singapore, and were awaiting re-export to other countries.

After the counterfeit cigarettes were seized, the right holder instituted infringement action against the importer and other parties, for which civil proceedings are ongoing.

In addition, the case was referred to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).

Three men arrested after raids on multiple locations

Then, on May 28, CID officers conducted simultaneous raids at multiple locations, including Punggol Drive, Hillview Ave, Jalan Asas, Teck Whye Lane, Clementi Ave 2, Ang Mo Kio Ave 5, Bedok South Ave 3 and Beach Rd.

These raids resulted in the arrests of the three men.

Investigations revealed that the men had imported more than 1.5 million packets of counterfeit cigarettes in the three containers, which totalled to an estimated street value of more than S$1.1 million.

Investigations are ongoing.

Police take serious view of intellectual property rights infringements

Police said in their statement that they take a serious view of intellectual property rights infringements, particularly in relation to counterfeit goods that might pose potential health risks:

"Importation and distribution of counterfeit goods are serious offences and the Police will not hesitate to take tough action against perpetrators who profit at the expense of legitimate businesses and consumers."

Anyone found guilty of importing or distributing goods with falsely applied trademarks may be fined up S$100,000, imprisoned for up to five years, or both.

Read more:

Top photos via Singapore Police Force and Singapore Customs joint news release.