The US Department of Homeland Security secured 214,000 counterfeit items that included hats, jerseys, and team memorabilia in a pre-existing initiative called "Operation Team Player."
“Excitement is growing ahead of the big game in New Orleans on Sunday. But if you’re looking to be in that number - and buy tickets to the Super Bowl LIX, you’ve got to do your homework first. Sadly, many con artists will be working overtime this week to prey on innocent people looking to attend the game,” said Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill.
The year-long effort was claimed to protect fans from knockoff products and illegal sellers making a profit.
“As we prepare for Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, it is important to remember that the success of the game depends on so many crucial partners and vital stakeholders." said Dolores DiBella, NFL Senior Vice President for Legal Affairs. "The NFL is extremely grateful for its long partnership with the IPR Center, HSI, CBP and New Orleans law enforcement, and all that they do to protect NFL fans. The continued success of Operation Team Player would not be possible without their tireless efforts and ongoing commitment to protecting NFL fans from counterfeit crimes both on the ground and online.”
The operation has been in effect since 2013 and has seized over $455 million worth of counterfeit NFL gear, which makes it the largest anti-counterfeit initiative that's currently underway within the US Federal Government.
Lieutenant Kenny Temple of the New Orleans Police Department assured that the local police department will work with Homeland Security and the NFL to combat illegal street vendors who will be part of the 200,000-some visitors that'll be in the city for the big weekend.