Palma Trial: Counterfeit Pokémon Cards and a €345,000 Dispute

During a 2022 seizure, around 1,500 unlicensed Pokémon card sets were found. Nintendo estimates the damage at €345,000, while the public prosecutor seeks acquittal.

Seized in Palma, now before the court

It sounds like a story from the internet, but the trial is really taking place here: Two businesswomen stand in Palma before the court because they allegedly tried to distribute unauthorized Pokémon card sets. The Guardia Civil reportedly intervened in 2022 at a parcel service and seized around 1,500 card sets. Nintendo estimates the loss at €345,000 and calls for penalties of up to three years in prison.

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How the police are said to have acted

According to the investigative records, the packages ended up with a distributor in Palma. Witnesses recall a quiet morning, the sun low, and the drivers rolling in. The officers searched shipments, checked labels and noted serial numbers. During the review, it became evident: packaging, printing and holograms did not correspond to the official licenses.

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Accusation, damage and defense

Nintendo expects economic damage in the six-figure range and accordingly demands harsh penalties. The defendants — two women with business activities, who according to investigators come from China — deny having knowingly sold counterfeits, according to court documents. Surprisingly: The public prosecutor's office is requesting acquittal. They argue that an intentional fraud offense cannot be proven beyond reasonable doubt.

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The trial start and what to expect

The trial will start in the coming weeks at the court in Palma. It will address expert opinions, manufacturer evidence and the path of the goods. A technical examination of the cards and their packaging should clarify whether they are truly counterfeit or misinterpreted goods with unclear origin.

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What buyers and collectors should know

For collectors, this means: look closely. Original cards have certain engravings, holograms and dealer codes. If in doubt, request receipts at purchase or use known dealers. For the island, the case also shows once again how global trade and local distribution centers work together—and how quickly problems can appear locally.

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A final thought: Whether the outcome is punishment or acquittal will depend on the evidence and expert opinions. Until then, Palma stays tense — and a bit suspicious when offers for cheap collector's items appear.