TORONTO — Toronto police say they’ve arrested two people and seized more than 16,000 counterfeit soccer merchandise items ahead of the World Cup, as they urge the public to only buy from trusted sellers and report suspected fraud.

Police say their investigation began last month after a local law firm specializing in brand protection received a complaint about fraudulent merchandise.

Police allege that a warehouse in Mississauga, Ont., had a large quantity of fake merchandise including jerseys, hats and flags, and the accused were supplying the products to retail stores.

They say officers executed search warrants at the warehouse and trailers on site and seized more than 16,000 fraudulent jerseys and flags purporting to be name brands, including Puma, Nike and Adidas, as well as two counterfeit FIFA World Cup trophies.

Police say two men face multiple charges, including fraud over $5,000 and passing off wares or services with intent to deceive or fraud.

Police are reminding the public to only buy items from trusted retailers and to come forward if they believe they are a victim of fraud.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 1, 2026.

The Canadian Press