The New York City Police Department (NYPD) conducted a significant raid on Canal Street and other Manhattan locations on Thursday, seizing an estimated $151 million worth of counterfeit goods. The operation targeted illegal sidewalk vendors whose activities have drawn numerous quality-of-life complaints from local residents and officials.
During the sweep, which began around 11:30 a.m., officers collected dozens of garbage bags filled with a wide array of fake merchandise. Items confiscated included knockoff Rolex watches, counterfeit fragrances, imitation Knicks jerseys, sunglasses, bags, and Labubu dolls. The NYPD also recovered $145,000 in cash.
The enforcement actions extended beyond Canal Street, with raids also occurring on Hester, Mulberry, and West 27th Streets in Manhattan. A total of 17 individuals were arrested and charged with trademark counterfeiting, a felony.
An NYPD spokesperson stated that the department has been taking action in response to complaints from local elected officials and community members regarding the prevalence of illegal street vending in Lower Manhattan. The goal of these operations is to hold vendors accountable and improve public safety conditions.
Assemblymember Grace Lee, who recently walked through the area with the NYPD and Councilmember Christopher Marte, emphasized the need for safe streets and firsthand observation to find solutions. This crackdown is part of an ongoing effort by the department to address concerns about illegal vending and counterfeit goods, which have long been an issue for Lower Manhattan residents and business owners.
Prior operations targeting illegal vendors on Canal Street and Broadway between May 20 and June 12 resulted in the seizure of over 1,100 counterfeit bags and other items, estimated to be worth more than $100 million.