ELDORET, Kenya — The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) has seized a consignment of suspected counterfeit Nike-branded sneakers in Eldoret town as part of its ongoing nationwide crackdown on illicit trade in fake goods.
The seizure followed an inspection carried out by ACA officers led by the Eldoret Regional Manager, Peter Wanjala, at a retail outlet operating under the name Shoez Collection. Several pairs of sneakers suspected of infringing on Nike’s trademark rights were confiscated during the operation.
According to the Authority, the inspection and seizure were conducted in strict compliance with the Anti-Counterfeit Act of 2008. An inventory of the seized items was prepared on site and formally witnessed to ensure transparency, accountability, and adherence to prescribed legal procedures.
Mr. Wanjala cautioned traders against dealing in counterfeit products, warning that enforcement operations in the region will continue.
“Counterfeit products pose serious risks to consumers and undermine legitimate businesses,” he said. “We urge traders to ensure that all products offered for sale are genuine and sourced from legitimate channels.”
The ACA said the operation forms part of broader efforts to protect consumers from substandard and potentially harmful goods, while also safeguarding intellectual property rights and promoting fair competition in the market.
Under the Anti-Counterfeit Act, 2008, the manufacture, importation, distribution, or sale of counterfeit goods is a criminal offence. Individuals and businesses found culpable risk prosecution, fines, forfeiture of goods, and other penalties prescribed by law.
The Authority further warned that liability may arise even where traders claim ignorance of the counterfeit nature of goods, noting that due diligence in sourcing merchandise is a legal and commercial obligation.
“A counterfeit product is one that is manufactured, imported, distributed, or sold without the authorisation of the rightful owner of a trademark or other intellectual property rights,” the ACA said in a statement. “Such products are often designed to closely imitate genuine goods in appearance or branding with the intention of misleading consumers.”
The ACA reiterated its commitment to working with law enforcement agencies, brand owners, and the public to disrupt counterfeit supply networks and uphold intellectual property rights.
