The Jamaica Constabulary Force says it destroyed millions of dollars worth of counterfeit goods on Thursday.
It says the move was intended to disrupt the illicit trade networks believed to be supporting organised crime.
The goods had previously been seized by the the Specialised Investigation Branch, SIB, during targeted enforcement operations.
The operation was conducted by the Transnational Crime Investigation Division, TCID, of the SIB, in partnership with the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce’s Anti-Illicit Trade Desk.
Among the items destroyed were fake clothing and footwear, illegal cigarettes and other counterfeit consumer products.
Divisional commander of the TCID, Deputy Superintendent Troy Duare, says the counterfeit trade is far from victimless.
He says the manufacture and sale of fake goods provide channels for financing gangs and supporting other violent criminal activities.
DSP Duare is also warning that unregulated products, particularly illicit cigarettes and poorly made clothing, can pose serious health and safety risks to consumers.
Meanwhile, president of the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce, Emile Leiba, says the destruction of the seized goods sends a clear message that counterfeit and illegal products have no place in Jamaica’s legitimate marketplace.
He says removing the products from circulation protects consumers, supports compliant businesses and safeguards government revenue needed for national development.
