Raid targets counterfeit shirt operation in Gandhinagar
In a late-night operation, copyright officials seized a substantial stock of counterfeit shirts bearing fake US Polo labels from a shop in Gandhinagar’s Swastik Market. The raid was carried out at Annsari Garment, a garment shop located on the main Gandhinagar road, after authorities acted on a complaint related to trademark infringement. The seizure underscores ongoing enforcement against counterfeit fashion goods in retail corridors across the region.
What was seized and its estimated value
During the operation, authorities recovered approximately 610 shirts that bore counterfeit US Polo labels, along with related labeling materials and other merchandise. The total value of the seized goods is estimated at Rs 14,38,750. The operation also involved the seizure of various labels and supporting materials used to counterfeit the brand’s markings, highlighting the scale of the distribution network in the market.
Key actors and the case lodged
The shop owner implicated in the case is Mohammad Mikain Ansari (residing in Koyna Colony, Gandhinagar). A formal complaint was filed by a representative of the US Polo Company, Neeraj Kumar Narendra Singh Dhahiya, who hails from Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh. Following the raid, a case was registered at the Gandhinagar Police Station under applicable intellectual property and anti-counterfeiting provisions. The police have initiated further inquiries to identify distributors and other participants in the supply chain.
Role of the enforcement team
The operation was conducted by company-affiliated officials and local enforcement officers, including individuals named Yogesh More, Mangesh Deshmukh, Nitin Kadam, and Avinash Patil, among others. The group coordinated the raid on Annsari Garment and oversaw the seizure of the counterfeit stock. Local shopkeepers in the area reported that several traders closed their shutters in response to the raid, reflecting the immediate impact on business activity in the market.
Impact on Gandhinagar’s market and enforcement signal
The seizure highlights ongoing efforts to curb counterfeit apparel and protect brand integrity in crowded trade hubs like Swastik Market. Market observers note that counterfeit goods under a well-known label can undermine legitimate retailers and mislead consumers who trust licensed products. The authorities’ action signals a renewed emphasis on IP rights enforcement in the region, with investigations expected to extend to other stores suspected of distributing or displaying fake branding.
What consumers should know
Shoppers are advised to exercise caution when purchasing branded apparel at discounted or street-side outlets. Authentic US Polo shirts typically exhibit consistent stitching, correct tag placement, and verified product codes. Buyers should check for authenticity labels, holograms, and other security features that may accompany genuine merchandise. If in doubt, purchase from authorized retailers and request receipts that confirm brand licensing and authenticity.
Next steps and ongoing investigations
Authorities have pledged to pursue all leads related to counterfeit supply chains connected to Annsari Garment and other outlets in the market. Investigations will likely involve tracing distributors, cross-checking labeling materials, and examining the end-to-end flow of counterfeit goods. Consumers and legitimate retailers alike await further updates on arrests, prosecutions, and potential remedial actions to restore market integrity.
