Itanagar: In a significant breakthrough, the Itanagar Capital Police have dismantled a sophisticated operation dealing in counterfeit Harpic toilet cleaner, seizing a substantial quantity of fake products from various outlets across the city’s prominent markets. The swift action follows a complaint lodged by Alfa Intelligence Service Pvt. Ltd., acting on behalf of consumer goods giant Reckitt Benckiser (India) Pvt. Ltd.
The crackdown, executed on July 25, saw a dedicated team comprising SDPO Kengo Durchi, OC Inspector K. Yangfo, Sub-Inspector Randhir Kumar Jha, and other personnel conducting simultaneous raids. The targeted locations included several shops in the bustling Gandhi and Ganga markets. The operation was carried out transparently, with both the complainants and independent witnesses present to observe the proceedings.
During the extensive raids, illicit stock was unearthed at multiple establishments. DNK Enterprises in Gandhi Market was found to be in possession of 52 bottles of the suspected fake product, while Neelam Traders, also in Gandhi Market, yielded 74 bottles. Another outlet in Gandhi Market, MI Store, had 14 bottles. The operation extended to Ganga Market, where Anand Store was found with 13 bottles and Yadav Store with 19 bottles. In total, a staggering 172 bottles of the suspected counterfeit cleaner were sealed and confiscated on the spot, marking a significant blow to the illegal trade.
A formal case has been registered at the Itanagar Police Station under Case No. 115/2025. The charges invoked include Section 63 of the Copyright Act, 1957, and Section 104 of the Trade Marks Act, 1999, highlighting the serious nature of intellectual property infringement. The ongoing investigation has been entrusted to Sub-Inspector Randhir Kumar Jha, who will delve deeper into the origins and network of this illicit trade.
SP Jummar Basar (APPS), who spearheaded the successful operation, has issued a crucial appeal to the public. He urged citizens to exercise caution and remain vigilant against the proliferation of counterfeit goods. Furthermore, he encouraged the reporting of any suspicious activities or products to the authorities, reaffirming the Itanagar Capital Police’s unwavering commitment to combating intellectual property crimes and safeguarding consumer interests in the region.