SUMMERSIDE - Island investigators are trying to determine how a Summerside retail store came into possession of counterfeit products.
After a brief investigation, the P.E.I. RCMP's Federal Enforcement Section seized counterfeit products from a city store on Dec. 2.
Police say one of the brand names involved is only sold through the company's stores or its official website.
RCMP Const. Robert McDougall of the Federal Enforcement Section said Monday that the investigation is ongoing, and no charges have yet been laid. McDougall said he could not disclose the name of the store, or the brands or type of product the store was selling until the investigation is complete.
He did say the store would remain open during the police investigation.
In a news release, the Federal Enforcement Section reminded the public of the dangers of purchasing counterfeit products.
"Most people are aware of counterfeit brand name clothing, sunglasses and handbags. People are not aware that counterfeits can pose a real threat their health and safety," the release stated. "Counterfeits have been made of the following items; toothpaste, batteries, automobile parts, sports equipment and pharmaceuticals, to name a few."
The release goes on to provide the four "Ps," tips for holiday shoppers to distinguish counterfeit items from the real thing:
-Does the PRICE seem reasonable? If the price seems too good to be true it probably is.
-Is the PACKAGING suitable for the product? Are there spelling errors or plastic on an expensive product?
-Are you familiar with the PLACE of purchase? Does it make sense that the product is being sold there?
-Does the PRODUCT'S quality seem acceptable? Watch for things like poor stitching, incorrectly spelled words, missing information like where it was made, etc.
To report the sale of counterfeit goods or for more information, contact the Federal Enforcement Section at 566-7638.
