Three men are embroiled in a significant legal battle after being accused of orchestrating a $10 million counterfeit luxury goods operation while allegedly collecting Centrelink benefits. The men, identified as brothers Ahmad Kase Siddiqi (30) and Ahmad Jawade Siddiqi (33), along with their associate Shadi Skaf (30), faced a police raid at their Sydney residences. Authorities seized an array of counterfeit goods, ranging from Rolex watches to Louis Vuitton handbags, alongside nine luxury vehicles, including Lamborghinis and a Mercedes AMG, valued at approximately $3 million.
During their court appearance at Parramatta Local Court, the trio sought bail, but their defence counsel raised questions about the charges against them. The lawyer for Skaf and Kase Siddiqi, Philip Strickland SC, highlighted the ambiguity surrounding the nature of the alleged offences, questioning what specific crime had been committed. He pointed out that merely importing and selling goods does not constitute a criminal act, implying that any potential violations of trademark laws might not warrant imprisonment.
Jawade Siddiqi’s barrister, Steven Boland, argued that his client’s case was distinct from those typically associated with serious criminal activities like drug trafficking, noting that their operations lacked any secretive elements or concealment.
Despite the defence’s remarks, police prosecutors argued for the men to remain in custody, citing concerns about the possibility of flight due to their access to significant financial resources. Police indicated that the counterfeit operation allegedly netted around $9.75 million in profits, though it has come to light that the profits recorded date back to 2017, while the primary alleged activities occurred from 2022 onwards.
Information from Detective Superintendent Peter Faux of the Organised Crime Squad revealed that during the execution of the search warrants, a delivery van filled with counterfeit items arrived at one of the properties. Investigators recovered over 500 fake luxury items and more than $250,000 in cash, suggesting a sophisticated and elaborate business operation.
Adding to the severity of their case, authorities claim at least one of the trio received Centrelink payments while profiting from these illegal activities. Faux pointed out the extravagant lifestyle the men were reportedly living, including driving high-value vehicles, which starkly contrasts with their claims of legitimate income sources.
As the court awaits a decision regarding the bail, the situation unfolds with complex legal questions and significant implications for those involved.