Karlovy Vary customs officers say they seized counterfeit merchandise and untaxed tobacco during a large-scale raid on Thursday, May 8th, at the Asia Dragon Bazar near Cheb in Northwest Bohemia.
During inspections at the Svatý Kříž market, officers from the regional customs oversight division discovered more than 6,300 items suspected of violating intellectual property laws. The goods included clothing, handbags, watches, and footwear branded as well-known global labels.
If genuine, the seized items would have been worth nearly CZK 72 million.
Officers say, they also found a hidden door behind hanging textiles. It led to additional storage areas packed with counterfeit items. Nearby stairs led to two more unlocked rooms containing more fake goods and a large amount of untaxed cigarettes.
In total, customs officers confiscated approximately 158,400 cigarettes — around 800 cartons — none of which had valid Czech tax stamps. Authorities estimate their market value at over CZK 1 million, with a tax shortfall exceeding CZK 700,000.
Police are now handling the criminal investigation into the tobacco seizure. Meanwhile, the counterfeit goods remain in the custody of the customs office. If trademark holders choose to pursue a simplified process, the items will be transferred for destruction.
Since the start of 2025, Karlovy Vary customs officers have seized nearly 17,000 counterfeit items across the region, valued at more than CZK 131 million. Officials say inspections of border markets will continue.
Photo credit: The Customs Administration of the Czech Republic
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