Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland are warning of the serious risks associated with buying counterfeit goods.
The caution follows the search of premises in Dungannon, carried out in line with Safer Business Action Week* – a national week of action to target business crime.
Detective Sergeant Mason from the Police Service’s Organised Crime Branch said: “Searches of four properties in Dungannon, plus one in Mallusk, were carried out by detectives from Organised Crime Branch, supported by officers from Trading Standards and the Intellectual Property Office.
“Over 1,200 items of counterfeit goods – including clothing, handbags, perfume, jewellery and toys – were seized. Collectively, the items represent an estimated loss of around £1.1 million to the brand retailers.
“Two business owners face police investigations into trademark offences and, as a result of the successful seizures, have now lost thousands of pounds worth of illicit stock.”
Detective Sergeant Mason continued: “Criminals will try to replicate anything and everything, from clothing, trainers and jewellery to electronic items and more. Some shoppers may be innocently unaware that they are in fact buying counterfeit items, while others are pleased to secure an affordable replica.
“My message is that counterfeit goods come, ironically, at a cost. They present a number of serious issues to you, your family and the wider community.
“Firstly, there are significant health and safety risks associated with counterfeit goods. Whether skincare, electrical items or clothing– these items don’t undergo the testing and quality control that genuine items do. A counterfeit children’s costume, for example, won’t have the necessary safety-release mechanism, and a counterfeit phone charger won’t be up to fire safety standards. Don’t let the idea of ‘saving’ a few pounds cost you your home, or even your life.”
The detective sergeant is also highlighting the often hidden costs of buying counterfeit products.
He said: “Some people will be surprised to learn that proceeds from the sale of counterfeit goods often fund serious organised crime, such as drug dealing, money laundering and human trafficking. To put it plainly, the purchase of counterfeit goods helps to line the pockets of criminals and paramilitaries.
“If that’s not enough to influence your decision, then please stop and ask yourself where these products are coming from. The truth is that the majority of fake goods are produced in sweatshops. These are factories with horrific conditions, and where vulnerable workers get paid an absolute pittance.
“I’m appealing to anyone with information about the supply of counterfeit goods to get in touch by calling 101 or by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, which is 100% anonymous.”
*Safer Business Action Week is a national week of action to target business crime. This year’s week of action began on Monday 10 November.