NYPD seizes bootleg goods worth millions, arrests 17

By the Editorial Team · Saturday, June 27, 2026

The NYPD conducted a large-scale raid on Thursday targeting counterfeit goods vendors across several Manhattan locations, arresting 17 people and seizing merchandise valued at up to $151 million. This operation is part of ongoing efforts to address illegal street vending and improve public safety in areas like Canal Street, which have long struggled with counterfeit sales and community concerns.

The New York Police Department conducted a large-scale operation on Thursday targeting vendors peddling counterfeit goods across several locations in Manhattan. The raids took place around 11:30 a.m. along Canal, Hester, and Mulberry Streets in Lower Manhattan, as well as on West 27th Street. Authorities seized millions of dollars’ worth of fake merchandise, including counterfeit Rolex watches, perfumes, bootleg Knicks jerseys, sunglasses, electronics, bags, and Labubu dolls. In addition, police recovered $145,000 in cash.

Seventeen individuals were arrested and charged with felony trademark counterfeiting as part of the operation. The NYPD has characterized the raids as a continuation of their efforts to curb illegal street vending and the trade in counterfeit merchandise, which has long been a source of concern for local residents, businesses, and elected officials.

Video footage released by the NYPD showed officers removing numerous bags filled with seized goods from the streets. Estimates of the total value of the confiscated merchandise vary, with reported figures reaching as high as $151 million. Police emphasized that the retail value is based on the goods’ authenticity, and the seized products are counterfeit.

Officials described the crackdown as a response to complaints from the community about the proliferation of illegal vendors in Lower Manhattan, particularly along Canal Street—an area known for its longstanding issues with counterfeit sales and crowded sidewalks. An NYPD spokesperson stated that the department’s actions aimed to hold illegal vendors accountable and improve public safety along these corridors.

Local leaders have publicly addressed the problem, with some engaging directly in walkthroughs of affected areas alongside law enforcement to assess conditions firsthand. Assemblymember Grace Lee highlighted the importance of community involvement in finding solutions, while Councilmember Christopher Marte also participated in efforts to monitor the situation.

This recent operation follows a series of five similar raids conducted between May 20 and June 12, during which police confiscated approximately 1,100 bags of alleged counterfeit items estimated at over $100 million in potential retail value. The NYPD continues to focus on reducing the availability of fake products and diminishing illegal street vending that officials say impacts the quality of life in Lower Manhattan.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.