Naples – The Provincial Command of the Guardia di Finanza of Naples has implemented an intense economic control activity in the territory, aimed at combating the illegal trade of counterfeit products, commercial abuse and undeclared work.
Article Key Points
The operations, conducted by the financial police of the Pronto Impiego Group and the I Group, with the support of canine units, were concentrated in the industrial area of the Neapolitan capital, targeting some commercial establishments managed by citizens of Chinese origin.
During the checks, the Guardia di Finanza uncovered a vast illegal sales ring of Games “pirated”, preloaded on console. These are titles linked to the phenomenon of “retrogaming”, the passion for games of the past that is experiencing a boom in popularity. The protagonists of these fake creations are famous characters from the 80s and 90s, protected by copyright, belonging to famous software houses.
11,7 million video games seized
The loot is impressive: 1.170 consoles seized, containing a total of 11,7 million Games counterfeit. But that's not all. The operations led to the seizure of approximately 25.000 fake articles and 55.000 products with non-compliant CE marking, including clothing, footwear, electrical goods, home accessories, costume jewelry, toys and beauty products. A severe blow to the counterfeit market, which continues to proliferate in the region.
During the operations, a picture of irregular work also emerged: seven “undeclared” workers, including a foreigner without a residence permit, and other employees paid in untraceable ways, despite being regularly employed.
In addition to this, there were administrative violations: two businesses, authorized only for wholesale sales, were operating illegally at retail, failing to install the telematic recorder and record the fees. These violations were reported to the Municipality for the sanctions provided for. Finally, counterfeit banknotes worth 300 euros were found.
The outcome of the investigations led to the reporting of 13 people to the Judicial Authority, accused to varying degrees of commercial fraud, receiving stolen goods, selling products with false markings and violations of copyright legislation. Another individual was reported to the Prefecture for possession of drugs for personal use.
This operation is part of a broader strategy to combat the counterfeit supply chain, which in 2024 alone has already allowed the seizure of over 22 million counterfeit or unsafe items in the industrial area of Naples, often in violation of the rules protecting Made in Italy. A clear signal from the authorities against a phenomenon that threatens the economy and security.
Article published on 26 February 2025 - 07:39
The article is interesting and shows how the Guardia di Finanza is taking action to stop illegal trade, but there are also many people who do not know that they work in these conditions. It is a complex problem.