Chinese law enforcement authorities have detained over 1.5 thousand people for the production and sale of fake medical masks, said Chinese deputy head of the public security ministry.

According to him, 688 cases have already been uncovered, TASS reported.

Police seized more than 31 million units of counterfeit products manufactured without complying with national and international standards, he said.

As the official noted, the value of the confiscated cargo is 174 million yuan (over $ 24.8 million).

Law enforcement officials continue to actively struggle with the supply of fake and substandard products to the market, he noted adding that the police will also harshly suppress violations that lead to higher prices for medical supplies.

Proceeding from the Chinese law, life imprisonment is applicable for counterfeiting medical masks.