Portuguese authorities seize counterfeit truck parts in European operation
ASAE, coordinated by OLAF, dismantled a network importing counterfeit truck components in Vila Nova de Gaia, Leiria and Lisbon. Goods valued at over 600,000 euros.
Portuguese authorities seize counterfeit truck parts in European operation
A joint operation between the Portuguese Food and Economic Safety Authority and the European Anti-Fraud Office resulted in the seizure of thousands of counterfeit components destined for heavy goods vehicles. Searches were conducted in three locations across mainland Portugal.
ASAE inspectors carried out raids on commercial establishments located in Vila Nova de Gaia, Leiria and the capital. In total, 14,629 units of fraudulent material, valued at approximately 600,000 euros, were removed from circulation. The seized goods included oil filters, fuel filters, air and cabin filters, bearings, valves, belt tensioners and brake cylinders.
According to the OLAF statement, the parts in question bore registered trademarks of well-known manufacturers in the truck sector, but had been produced illegally in Turkey. The components featured counterfeit logos and could be mistaken for genuine articles by repair shops or end consumers.
The use of this type of material in heavy goods vehicles represents a significant danger to road safety. Any of these parts, if installed in a truck, could cause serious breakdowns with potentially fatal consequences in traffic accidents.
The investigation was supported by OLAF investigators in the field, as well as representatives of the affected companies, who assisted in verifying the authenticity of the goods. The operation was part of a broader action to combat the entry of counterfeit goods into the EU market.
Petr Klement, Director-General of OLAF, emphasised that counterfeit products cause economic damage to companies and undermine consumer confidence, and that in this particular case, they posed a risk to the physical integrity of users.
Source: European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF)
Source: Google News UK — Crime (en)