We learned recently about a Nintendo fan who received a Nintendo Switch retail unit weeks before the console’s official launch who then uploaded a video showing off the setup process for the device and the various menus that the system can access. This recipient of the early device gave the impression that his pre-order unit was accidentally shipped early, and it seems that this customer believed the story himself. However, new word from Nintendo indicates that this may not have been the case, as this leaked Nintendo Switch console was reportedly a stolen unit that was resold.

An official statement by Nintendo has been given to IGN in which the company states that this unit was one of several consoles stolen from a distribution center by employees who then resold this unit illegally, as they claim:

“Earlier this week, individuals claimed to prematurely purchase a small number of Nintendo Switch systems from an unspecified retailer. Nintendo has determined these units were stolen in an isolated incident by employees of a U.S. distributor, with one system being illegally resold. The individuals involved have been identified, terminated from their place of employment and are under investigation by local law enforcement authorities on criminal charges.

Nintendo Switch will launch worldwide on March 3, 2017, and we look forward to everyone being able to discover the wonders of the new system for themselves at that time.”

This statement seems to clarify that the device was not shipped accidentally by a retailer as initially believed. The customer that did receive this unit that was seen in videos online has reportedly returned his system, as he did not feel comfortable possessing the stolen property. As of now, it is not yet known what has been done with the remaining stolen systems. What do you guys think about this development in the leaked Nintendo Switch console story? Let us know in the comments below!

Be sure to stay tuned for the latest Nintendo Switch news, such as this look at the Ultra Street Fighter II first-person mode on Nintendo Switch, here on Don’t Feed the Gamers! And follow our Disqus and our Twitter to see our updates the minute they go live.