The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) has dismantled a sophisticated counterfeit luxury watch syndicate following a targeted raid on a two-storey premise in Kuala Lumpur last Friday. During the operation, enforcement officers seized 790 units of suspected counterfeit watches from various world-renowned brands, with a total estimated market value of RM790,600.
KPDN Director-General of Enforcement, Datuk Azman Adam, confirmed that a local man in his 30s, believed to be the premises manager, was apprehended during the bust. Beyond the timepieces, authorities also confiscated branded boxes, paper bags, and other accessories used to package the imitation products for sale. The raid was the culmination of a month-long intelligence gathering and surveillance operation into the illicit storage and distribution hub.
According to initial investigations, the suspect managed the entire operation, which was conducted with a high degree of secrecy to evade detection. The ground floor of the building was used as a legitimate-looking watch repair and service workshop, while the upper floor served as a hidden showroom and warehouse for the counterfeit goods. The premises was heavily fortified with remote-controlled glass doors and a comprehensive CCTV system to monitor for any signs of law enforcement.
Datuk Azman noted that the syndicate targeted a selective clientele, with sales conducted discreetly rather than to the general public. The counterfeit watches were reportedly sourced from international suppliers before being distributed to local buyers. The suspect is currently in custody to assist with further inquiries into the supply chain and duration of the illegal activities.
The case is being investigated under the Trademarks Act 2019 (Act 815) for the unauthorised use of registered trademarks. Datuk Azman reiterated that KPDN maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding the sale of counterfeit goods, as such activities infringe upon the rights of trademark owners and potentially deceive consumers. He urged the public to report any information regarding counterfeit trading through the ministry’s official WhatsApp line at 019-848 8000 or their dedicated e-aduan portal.
