A typical day to buy video games or collectible figures in downtown Mexico City turned into a security display worthy of a movie. Capital and federal authorities conducted a surprise inspection at several locations in the iconic Friki Plaza, the Fan Center, and Plaza Meave, resulting in the confiscation of hundreds of products suspected of violating intellectual property rights and sparking all kinds of comments.

The intervention, dubbed Operation Cleanup, was led by the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (IMPI) with direct support from the Navy Secretariat and the Capital’s Public Security Secretariat. The operation focused on 15 establishments along the Eje Central Lázaro Cárdenas corridor, where inspectors focused on consoles, accessories, video games, and collectible figures lacking official licenses or origin documentation.

According to official figures shared by the institute, the seized merchandise totals 477 items with an estimated value of approximately $63,000 USD. All confiscated products were bagged and labeled to initiate the corresponding legal process that will determine if they violate copyright or industrial property laws. Although false rumors initially circulated about the permanent closure of Friki Plaza, authorities clarified that it was a review targeting specific businesses, not a closure of the building.

The presence of military personnel in an Asian entertainment passage sparked intense debate online. While some users argued it was a necessary blow against the blatant sale of unauthorized copies that harm original creators, many others questioned the use of federal resources and Navy personnel to remove plastic figures and pirated games in a zone known for other daily security issues.

The Friki Plaza is one of the most emblematic meeting points for the passionate community of anime, video games, manga, and pop culture in Mexico City. Located since the early 2000s on Eje Central Lázaro Cárdenas, this complex brings together dozens of merchants dedicated to selling imported products, collectible figures, trading cards, and themed food, becoming a must-visit for thousands of young people who visit the heart of the Historic Center each week.

What do you think about the Navy’s deployment to combat the sale of pirated merchandise in this type of plaza?