Two Men Charged Following Largest Counterfeit Soccer Jersey Seizure in Canadian History
Two men have been arrested following what Toronto Police say is the largest seizure of counterfeit soccer jerseys ever recorded in Canada.
The investigation began on May 12 after Lipkus Law alerted authorities to a suspected warehouse containing counterfeit merchandise. The tip prompted Toronto Police to launch an investigation into the operation.
Speaking at a news conference at Toronto Police Headquarters on June 1, Superintendent David Ecklund said investigators executed search warrants at a Mississauga warehouse operated by Amana Trading Company.
“We seized more than 16,000 name-brand jerseys and flags, along with two counterfeit FIFA World Cup trophies, with an estimated street value exceeding $3.5 million,” he said. “Given the size of this seizure, we believe the two men had been operating this scheme for some time. They acted as distributors, supplying counterfeit merchandise to retail stores.”
As a result of the investigation, Ramy Jaber, 41, of Milton, and Walid Sarhan, 62, of Mississauga, have been charged with several offences, including possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000.
Ecklund credited the Toronto Police Service’s FIFA Planning Team Investigative Unit, led by Detective Patrick Costello, as well as members of the Public Safety Response Team, for their work on the case.
The investigation involved close collaboration with Lipkus Law, whose assistance helped investigators identify and shut down the alleged illegal operation.
“Counterfeit merchandise is a known concern during major sporting events, including the FIFA World Cup,” Ecklund said. “For criminals, it is a crime of opportunity. They know fans are eager to support their favourite teams and exploit that excitement. In many cases, proceeds from counterfeit sales help fund organized crime, including human trafficking. We want consumers to feel confident they are purchasing authentic products and not being scammed by cheap imitations. If you believe you have been a victim of fraud, we encourage you to report it to police.”
Deputy Chief Rob Johnson also praised the officers involved in the investigation.
“Their strong partnerships, quick response and commitment to stopping this fraudulent activity were critical to the success of this historic seizure,” he said. “I also want to thank Lipkus Law, a member of the Canadian Anti-Counterfeiting Network, for its support throughout the investigation. This seizure serves as an important reminder for fans to be vigilant when purchasing merchandise. Take a closer look before buying products to support your favourite team. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.”
David Lipkus of Lipkus Law commended Toronto Police, along with investigators from Backlit Resource Group and Whalen Investigative Consulting, as well as the lawyers and support staff who assisted with the case.
“This seizure is the direct result of flawless execution by the Toronto Police Service and represents the largest known seizure of counterfeit soccer jerseys in Canadian history,” he pointed out. “Counterfeiting undermines honest, hardworking Canadian businesses that pay taxes, hire locally and operate within the law. It affects all of us, and Canadian consumers deserve protection from this harmful and pervasive crime. While Canadians are excited to co-host FIFA World Cup matches, bad actors are attempting to exploit that enthusiasm for illicit financial gain.”
Lipkus also offered advice to consumers on how to avoid purchasing counterfeit merchandise.
“If you’re shopping online through third-party marketplaces or social media, start by looking at the price,” he said. “Be cautious if the deal seems too good to be true. Visit the brand’s official website to identify authorized retailers in your area. Check for spelling or grammar mistakes on tags, labels and packaging. Legitimate brands take pride in their products and provide clear information about who they are, how to contact them and product care instructions. If you believe you have unknowingly purchased counterfeit goods, contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre to explore options such as a chargeback. Be vigilant and shop smart.”
