RCMP participates in FBI operation targeting software piracy; Canada one of 11 countries involved outside the United States

June 30, 2005 – Canada was one of 11 countries outside the U.S. that participated yesterday in an operation targeting criminal organizations involved in Internet software piracy and the illegal distribution of copyrighted works. The RCMP, working with its partners, conducted searches and seizures in British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario and Quebec. Other countries involved included Belgium, Australia, Denmark, France, Germany, Israel, Korea, Poland, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. All countries timed their actions to the U.S. searches and arrests, called Operation Site Down.

In Canada, searches and seizures were coordinated by an RCMP Alberta team, working with RCMP members and with partners across the country. Searches were conducted in Montreal (Quebec); Kingston and Milton (Ontario); Calgary and Edmonton (Alberta) and Vancouver and Victoria (British Columbia). The investigation is continuing.

"The illegal distribution of software and other intellectual property causes financial loss to legitimate businesses, governments and taxpayers in Canada and around the world. These losses are estimated to be in the billions of dollars," said Raf Souccar, Assistant Commissioner of RCMP Federal and International Operations. "As we know, some counterfeit goods, such as auto parts, electrical components and pharmaceuticals, can also endanger the health and safety of Canadians. It is crucial that we work with our international partners to combat these crimes."

In Canada, the RCMP is responsible for the enforcement of criminal provisions of the Copyright Act. Criminal offences are punishable by fines of up to $1 million or imprisonment of up to five years. RCMP intelligence indicates organized crime groups are often involved in counterfeit goods rings.

For more information:
RCMP National Communications: 613-993-2999
Federal Bureau of Investigation
United States Department of Justice