RCMP Shut Down Pirated Video Games Sales

TORONTO , Nov. 5 /CNW/ - The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) Federal Enforcement Section of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), in partnership with York Regional Police and Entertainment Software Association Canada (ESAC) concluded a six week investigation, dubbed Project OACTION. Investigators executed five Search Warrants at two local businesses at the Pacific Mall, a residence, and two associated vehicles in the GTA, regarding the selling of counterfeit computer video games to the public. Counterfeit manufacturing equipment, in addition to counterfeit video games were seized, including computer hard drives and a multi DVD burner at the residence. Nine firearms were seized at the residence by York Regional Police. Police allege that pirated copies of video games were being manufactured, distributed and offered for a sale in the amount of between $5.00 and $10.00 each. The legitimate sale price should be between $50.00 and $100.00 each.

"The ESAC applauds the work of the RCMP and the York Police Service in cracking down on pirate video game retailers in Markham's Pacific Mall. Game piracy costs the entertainment software industry millions of dollars each year, directly harming legitimate Canadian publishers, developers and retailers. Law enforcement like this one that targets the trafficking of pirated game products sends a clear message that these illegal actions will not be tolerated." says Danielle LaBossiere Parr, Executive Director Entertainment Software Association of Canada (ESAC).

"Piracy is widespread not only in the GTA, but throughout North America . Piracy of legitimate products shuts down job opportunities and impacts everyone who is legitimately involved in the production and distribution of video game software ", says Corporal Cathie Glenn of the RCMP.

    
    Charged with Fraud and Possession of Property Obtained by Crime under the
Criminal Code and Manufacture, Sale and Distribution of Copyright Works under
the Copyright Act are:

    1.  He LI, 26, of Mondeo Drive, Toronto, ON.
    2.  Wing-Fat LAU, 54, of Highglen Avenue, Markham, ON.
    3.  Yu-Hin LAU, 25, of Highglen Avenue, Markham, ON.
    

All three are scheduled to appear in court Newmarket court on January 5, 2010 .

For further information: Media Enquiries: Cathie Glenn, Cpl., Media Liasion, Federal Enforcement Section, Toronto North Detachment, Office: [phone], Cell: [phone] , e-mail: [email protected]