A total of 1,800 fake sanitisers, 1,000 masks and 200 boxes of medications were confiscated from the man.

A young Asian man was recently arrested in Sharjah after being caught with several boxes of counterfeit face masks and substandard sanitisers and medicines. He was in front of his house - ready to transport the items for illegal distribution - when he was nabbed, authorities have said.

A total of 1,800 fake sanitisers, 1,000 masks and 200 boxes of medications were confiscated from the man, said Khalid Falah Al Suwaidi, director of clients services department at the Sharjah Municipality.

Investigations showed that he turned a room in the house into a storage area for the counterfeit items. He reportedly aimed to sell the substandard items illegally to cash in on the demand for such products amid the Covid-19 situation.

As soon as inspectors found the items in the man's possession, the Sharjah Municipality immediately contacted the police and the emirate's economic development department.

"Necessary measures were taken by the Sharjah Economic Development Department for the confiscation. The municipality also fined the person involved, including penalties for the use of the vehicle and the house in illegal activities," Al Suwaidi said.

"Our teams will not tolerate all those who intend to harm the community, especially with the current situation and the increase in demand for these health and personal care items. The municipality will continue its inspections in cooperation with the authorities," he said.

Al Suwaidi also reminded the public to buy items only from authorised sellers and stores. Residents are urged to report any violation and illegal activity by calling 993.

afkarali@khaleejtimes.com