A large-scale operation by law enforcement agencies in the popular resort complex "Sunny Beach" has led to the uncovering of a serious network for the distribution of counterfeit goods. At the center of the investigation, led by the District Prosecutor's Office-Burgas, is the illegal use of world-famous trademarks without any permission from their legal owners.
According to an official statement from the prosecutor's office, the pre-trial proceedings were initiated as a result of a specialized operation aimed specifically at protecting intellectual property. During the operation, which took place amid the lively atmosphere of the resort, searches were conducted in numerous commercial establishments, as well as in a storage facility that likely served to store the illegal goods.
Significant Discoveries from the Raids
Huge quantities of textiles, shoes, and bags were seized, all bearing the distinctive signs of global brands. These items, which at first glance imitate original products, have been confiscated as material evidence. The investigation is focused on a crime under Art. 172b, para. 1 of the Penal Code, which deals with exactly such violations of trademark rights.
While investigators are working on the ground, witnesses are being questioned to clarify the full picture of the criminal activity. At the same time, a key forensic trademark examination has been ordered. The purpose of this examination is to definitively determine to what extent the items seized from the commercial network have signs that are "visually, phonetically, and semantically similar" to the registered original trademarks. The results of the examination will be crucial for the course of the case and for the raising of possible charges against the persons involved.
The operation to protect intellectual property highlights the seriousness with which authorities are approaching the problem of counterfeits, which not only cause damage to reputable companies but also mislead consumers, especially during the active summer season when the resort is full of tourists. Subsequent procedural and investigative actions are forthcoming against the individuals engaged in this activity.