PIRATED COPIES OF “TRANSPORTER 3” MOVIE SEIZED IN RAID
3 February 2009
download as PDFMovie yet to be seen in Australian cinemas
SYDNEY - On 2 February, Kogarah Police, supported by investigators from the Australian Federation Against Copyright Theft (AFACT), raided two business addresses in Kogarah and seized over 1,200 pirated latest release movie DVDs, including illegal copies of “Transporter 3”, which is not due to be released in Australian cinemas until later this week.
Police also seized multiple DVDR burners, computer equipment,1,200 blank DVDRs, and catalogues of pirated movie titles.
The investigation followed information from members of the public alleging that illegal copes of movies were being sold over the counter at one of the business locations.
"We commend the prompt and professional work of the NSW Police," said Neil Gane, Director of Operations at AFACT. "It’s tough enough in today’s economic climate for genuine businesses like local cinemas and DVD stores to make an honest living without having to compete with criminals who cream the profit of the hard work of those working in the film and television industry in Australia."
A 27-year-old man has been charged with multiple copyright offences.
Penalties for copyright crimes are a maximum of $60,500 and/or 5 years’ jail per offence.
About AFACT
AFACT works closely with industry, government, police and educational institutions to address copyright theft and protect the interests of the film and television industry as well as the interests of Australian movie fans.
In 2008, state and federal police conducted 51 raids involving movie piracy and seized 544,697 pirated DVDs. They also seized 488 burners capable of producing 12 million pirated DVDs a year with a potential street value of over $61million.
AFACT acts on behalf of the 50,000 Australians directly impacted by copyright theft including independent cinemas, video rental stores and film and television producers across the country. AFACT has its own anti-piracy hotline: 1800 251 996.
Contact:
For interviews with Neil Gane, AFACT, contact:
Stephen Jenner: (02) 9997 8011
After hours: 0409 776 196
info@afact.com.au
www.afact.com.au
