Upon arrival at Philadelphia International Airport, the shipments raised immediate suspicion, prompting a thorough authenticity check. Two separate shipments—one containing 10,000 stickers, arriving on November 26, and the other with 12,000 stickers, arriving on December 9—were held for inspection.
After verification with Pennsylvania authorities, the stickers were confirmed to be counterfeit, and the shipments were officially seized on December 16.
Despite the shipments originating from Israel, the identities of those behind the counterfeit operation remain unclear. It is unknown whether the operation is part of an organized smuggling network or the work of private individuals.
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Using counterfeit inspection stickers in Pennsylvania could result in fines of up to $500 and even imprisonment. In addition to the legal consequences, authorities have stressed the significant safety risk posed by counterfeit stickers. Vehicles that do not meet safety standards could endanger both passengers and road users.
At this time, no arrests have been reported in connection with the case. However, U.S. authorities have announced that they will continue to investigate the origins of the shipments and their potential connections to Israel and the Palestinian Authority.