In the operation to combat counterfeiting, imitation and illegal use of brands, clothing, leather goods, belts, caps, hats, sneakers and costume jewellery from renowned brands were seized, ASAE said in a statement.

In total, the counterfeit items have an estimated value of 11,600 euros.

The economic oversight body added that three criminal proceedings were also instituted for the sale or concealment of counterfeit products and imitation or illegal use of brands.

The inspection carried out by the Southern Regional Unit – Faro Operational Unit of ASAE “was directed at establishments suspected of selling counterfeit goods”, the note reads.

Counterfeiting, it is highlighted, constitutes a crime preceding money laundering and is “frequently associated with tax, labour and environmental offences, with a significant impact in these areas”.

The Food and Economic Safety Authority states that it will continue to monitor the phenomenon, promoting the protection of the industrial property of the owners of the offended brands and ensuring consumer protection.