Music piracy ring busted in Sydney

The man was allegedly involved in connection with the manufacture and international distribution of CDs on a commercial scale.

The AFP seized thousands of pirated CDs and album covers during searches conducted at businesses and residences across Sydney after eleven search warrants were executed today and yesterday.

The man from Sydney's inner west suburb of Petersham was arrested yesterday and has been charged with possessing an infringing copy contrary to Section132AJ of the Copyright Act 1968.

AFP acting national manager for Economic and Special Operations Ray Johnson warned that the AFP was serious about combating intellectual property crime.

“The AFP is committed to working with agency and industry partners and the general public to disrupt intellectual property crimes such as music piracy and counterfeit goods,” Commander Johnson said.

The accused was bailed and will appear before the Central Local Court on 13 May 2008.

The maximum penalty for copyright infringement offences for individuals is five years imprisonment and/or a fine of $60,500.