Fake Coronavirus Test Kits Seized At LAX, Officials Say

LOS ANGELES, CA — Counterfeit COVID-19 test kits were intercepted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers when they arrived at the LAX International Mail Facility, authorities said Saturday.

"On March 12, 2020, CBP officers discovered six plastic bags containing various vials, while conducting an enforcement examination of a parcel manifested as 'Purified Water Vials' with a declared value of $196.81," CPB spokesman Jaime Ruiz said Saturday. "A complete examination of the shipment led to the finding of vials filled with a white liquid and labeled 'Corona Virus 2019nconv (COVID-19)' and 'Virus1 Test Kit'."

CBP officers intercepted fake COVID-19 test kits at the LAX Int’l Mail Facility. The health and safety of the American people is a top priority for @CBP especially during a National Emergency. Our officers remain vigilant. https://t.co/uPZpHy1Yws pic.twitter.com/e4YZwXr68n
— OFO Executive Assistant Commissioner Todd Owen (@OFOEAC) March 14, 2020

Ruiz estimated there were "well over a hundred" test kits in the shipment, which was turned over to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for analysis.

Opportunists attempted to sell fake COVID-19 test kits in China after the outbreak began and the Chinese government took quick action, he said.

As for the discovery at LAX, "there could be more to come," Ruiz said. CPB officials went public with the seizure to alert consumers to the dangers of buying home COVID-19 test kits online, at swap meets or at other markets.

"Avoid home test kits," Ruiz urged.

—City News Service

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