Always on the lookout: CBP officers seize $8M in counterfeit watches in Chicago

Introduction to the Seizure

CHICAGO — U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in Chicago say they seized a shipment containing more than two dozen counterfeit watches, which would have been worth more than $8 million if genuine.

Details of the Shipment

According to CBP officials, the shipment, which arrived from China, was intercepted for inspection on Oct. 23, as it made its way through an express consignment facility near O’Hare International Airport.

Inspection and Discovery

An inspection by CBP then revealed that the shipment contained the following 26 designer brand watches: six Richard Mille watches; eight Audemars Piguet watches; four Diesel watches; eight G-Shock watches; and two Rolex bracelets.

Visual Evidence

Destination and Value

According to CBP, the watches and bracelets bore the names and logos of the designer brands and were bound for a residence in Chicago. Additional investigation by the CBP’s trade experts indicated that the watches were inauthentic. Officials said, if genuine, they would have had a combined MSRP of over $8.5 million.

Impact and Prevention

“While online shopping has increased, CBP stays vigilant by stopping illegal shipments like these from damaging our economy,” CBP Director, Field Operations-Chicago Field Office LaFonda Sutton-Burke said. “Officers at the Port of Chicago are always on the lookout to uphold our mission of protecting Americans from dangerous shipments and materials.” According to CBP, many times, counterfeit products like the ones seized are sold through underground outlets and third-party e-commerce websites and often fund smugglers and members of organized crime.

Conclusion

The seizure of these counterfeit watches highlights the ongoing efforts of CBP to protect consumers and the economy from counterfeit goods. It also serves as a reminder for consumers to be cautious when shopping online and to only purchase from authorized retailers to avoid supporting illegal activities.

FAQs

• Q: What was seized by CBP officers in Chicago?
  A: CBP officers seized a shipment containing more than two dozen counterfeit watches.
• Q: Where did the shipment originate from?
  A: The shipment arrived from China.
• Q: What was the potential value of the seized watches if they were genuine?
  A: Over $8.5 million.
• Q: Why is it important to prevent the sale of counterfeit goods?
  A: Counterfeit goods can damage the economy and often fund illegal activities such as smuggling and organized crime.