Customs officers have arrested eight men, aged 22 to 54, during an eight-day operation against pirated computer software.

From October 14, officers raided eight companies in Wan Chai, Tsim Sha Tsui, Mong Kok, Lok Fu, Kwai Chung and Yuen Long suspected of using pirated computer software for business.

They seized 92 computers suspected to be equipped with the software and a small quantity of pirated discs, worth about $450,000 in total.

Copyright Investigation Division Commander Chong Wai-ming reminded the public, particularly company managers, not to use pirated computer software.

Under the amended Copyright Ordinance in effect since April 1, 2001, anyone who knowingly possesses an infringing copy of a copyright work, such as pirated software, for business purposes commits a criminal offence.

The maximum penalty is a fine of $50,000 per infringing copy and four years' imprisonment.

Since April 1, 2001, Customs officers have arrested 49 people suspected of involvement in corporate piracy. The maximum penalty meted out was a fine of $50,000 and six months' imprisonment.

To report corporate piracy, call 2545 6182.

Anyone who provides information leading to a raid on a company and a seizure of pirated software being used on at least eight computers is eligible for a reward of $5,000.

The reward scheme is financed by the Business Software Alliance and administered by Customs.