The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) on Thursday, March 2, released goods worth Ksh50 million to China Square after completing investigations into an alleged infringement on intellectual property.
In a statement, ACA Executive Director Robi Mbugua Njoroge stated that a Kenyan-based company that had accused China Square of selling counterfeit Finder Tools withdrew its complaint.
According to ACA, the request was made upon confirmation that the goods seized were sourced from the same manufacturer and international brand owner of Finder Merchandise.
In addition, the agency agreed with the terms upon conducting thorough investigations.
"The complainant also requested for the release of the goods. In light of this new information, ACA conducted a thorough investigation and verified the source of the goods, and we can confirm that they are authentic Finder Tools. As such, we have released the goods to the rightful owner," the statement read in part.
ACA also urged the members of the public to avoid falling prey to counterfeit products.
"We would like to urge members of the public to be vigilant when purchasing goods to avoid falling victim to counterfeit products. We also encourage them to report any suspected cases of counterfeit products to ACA to help protect their rights and interests," the statement read in part.
The goods were seized on Thursday, February 16, after a complaint was launched by the Kenyan-based company.
Lei Cheng, the China Square proprietor, had initially intimated to the press that the infringement claims were a plot to kick him out of business.
At the time, the China Square owner expressed concerns about his business not reopening.
China Square has been at the centre of controversy after Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria revealed his intentions of kicking Cheng out of business.
“I have given an offer to Prof Wainaina the VC Kenyatta University to buy out the lease for China Square, Unicity Mall and hand it over to the Gikomba, Nyamakima, Muthurwa l and Eastleigh Traders Association,”
After his statement sparked uproar, the CS offered to assist the China Square owner to set up a manufacturing plant in Kenya.
