The Federal Police Crime Investigation Bureau says it has uncovered a large-scale counterfeit distribution network that allegedly harmed market stability, reduced tax revenue and put public health at risk through the sale of substandard products.
Investigators appearing before the Federal First Instance Court, Arada Division First-Instance Criminal Bench, requested a 14-day remand extension to continue their probe into the main suspect, Seyid Mohammednur Umer. Police said the case involves trademark infringement and a wider criminal network that was targeting both the economy and consumers.
According to court documents, the alleged operation ran counter to the government’s recent macroeconomic reforms, which are aimed at stabilizing markets, curbing inflation and improving consumer welfare. Police said the network also deprived the state of significant tax revenue and distorted fair competition in the market.
In their application to the court, investigators said the suspect had used the “VIVa” tissue trademark, registered under International Class 16 by Pure Wood Pulp & Paper Packaging PLC with the Ethiopian Intellectual Property Authority, without the owner’s consent.
Police said they received tip-offs indicating that the suspect had been illegally copying Viva Tissue packaging since 2024 and flooding the market with counterfeit products. They said the alleged operation was not limited to Addis Ababa, but extended to regional towns through a covert network of representatives and accomplices.
Beyond the economic damage, police warned that the counterfeit tissue posed serious health risks to consumers. They said the fake product was reportedly made from substandard waste materials and hazardous chemical additives, unlike the genuine product, which is manufactured under quality controls.
Police told the court that the suspect could destroy evidence, alter facts or intimidate witnesses if released while the investigation continues. They therefore asked for more time to collect testimonial and documentary evidence.
However, during the court session on 5 June 2026, the bench granted a seven-day remand extension instead of the 14 days requested. The case was adjourned to 11 June 2026 for a progress update on the investigation.
