74 counterfeit iPhones, dozens of other fake products seized in 'sophisticated' operation, Surrey RCMP say

Police seized more than 100 counterfeit smartphones and dozens of other fake items. (Surrey RCMP)

Mounties in Surrey have seized more than 100 counterfeit smartphones and dozens of other items in an investigation that began with a suspicious package last December.

The seized package contained "what appeared to be multiple new Apple iPhones in their original packages with corresponding receipts," Surrey RCMP said in a news release Friday.

"However, upon further investigation, the phones were determined to be counterfeit and the receipts were fraudulent."

The detachment's south community response unit continued investigating and learned that the counterfeit smartphones and "other well-produced counterfeit products" were being sold as genuine across the Lower Mainland in a "sophisticated" operation, police said.

In late June, the team executed two search warrants – one at a home on 135 Street near 69 Avenue in Surrey and the other at a home on 124 Avenue near 217 Street in Maple Ridge.

Surrey RCMP said they seized the following items in the searches:

Investigators also seized "personal electronic devices" during the searches, police said, adding that they have identified "multiple suspects" who they believe were knowingly selling the fake products and presenting them as real.

"Investigators are working to submit a complete report to the BC Prosecution Service for charge approval," the release reads.

In the meantime, police are warning the public to "take proactive steps" to verify the authenticity of cellphones purchased from sellers other than the manufacturer or retail outlets.

"When making a large purchase such as a smartphone, pay attention to the details," said Sgt. Tammy Lobb, in the release.

"Do not give your hard-earned money to a scammer, if the deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is."

Police are asking anyone who "inadvertently or unknowingly" purchased a counterfeit smartphone to contact them at 604-599-0502 and quote file number 2023-207100.