Brazil Authorities Seize 200,000 Counterfeit Balls Originating From China At Santos Port

Brazil's tax authorities said that 200,000 counterfeit footballs originating from China "have been seized at the Brazilian port of Santos," according to Brian Homewood of REUTERS. The balls included "imitations of the Jabulani model, the ball used at the 2010 World Cup, and the Cafusa, which will be used at the Confederations Cup in Brazil in June." Brazil’s Inland Revenue Service said that the balls were apprehended at the port as part of "Operation Protected Frontiers" and would be destroyed. No arrests were reported (REUTERS, 2/20). GLOBO TV reported this type of control at the Santos port would be more common with the Confederations Cup and World Cup looming closer (GLOBO TV, 2/20).