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19/07/2024
Counterfeit Designer Clothing Seized In Dungiven
A 28-year-old man has been arrested following a search in Dungiven that uncovered counterfeit clothing, trainers, handbags and watches valued at over £500,000, representing a significant loss to the designers.
The arrest was made and a substantial quantity of counterfeit goods was recovered following searches of a residential and business property.
The operation was conducted by North West CID, with support from the Police Service's Tactical Support Group, Neighbourhood Policing Officers and District Support Officers.
The man was arrested on suspicion of possessing items that breach a registered trademark and possessing article infringing copyright. He has since been released on bail pending further enquiries.
Thousands of suspected counterfeit designer items, including clothing, trainers, handbags, and watches, were seized. According to an initial police assessment, these counterfeit goods would have caused the brands involved a loss of value exceeding £500,000.
Detective Inspector Gareth Lavery said: "It is easy to see the buying of fake goods as a harmless and victimless crime, but this couldn’t be further from the truth.
"While it may seem like a bargain to buy a designer item, people need to think of the consequences. Counterfeit goods are made by people in all parts of the world in terrible conditions with workers often trafficked or involved in human slavery. Low quality manufacturing can also make products dangerous to wear or use.
"Profits from counterfeit goods help to fund other crime including drug supply, human trafficking, organised crime groups and money laundering. The counterfeit trade impacts the UK economy with the loss of millions of pounds of revenue each year which could be put towards public services and the national infrastructure. I would urge people to reconsider their choices when faced with the option to buy fake goods and ask that if anyone encounters a counterfeit seller they report them."
Information can be passed to police by calling 101 or by submitting a report online using the non-emergency reporting form. The public can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online.
The arrest was made and a substantial quantity of counterfeit goods was recovered following searches of a residential and business property.
The operation was conducted by North West CID, with support from the Police Service's Tactical Support Group, Neighbourhood Policing Officers and District Support Officers.
The man was arrested on suspicion of possessing items that breach a registered trademark and possessing article infringing copyright. He has since been released on bail pending further enquiries.
Thousands of suspected counterfeit designer items, including clothing, trainers, handbags, and watches, were seized. According to an initial police assessment, these counterfeit goods would have caused the brands involved a loss of value exceeding £500,000.
Detective Inspector Gareth Lavery said: "It is easy to see the buying of fake goods as a harmless and victimless crime, but this couldn’t be further from the truth.
"While it may seem like a bargain to buy a designer item, people need to think of the consequences. Counterfeit goods are made by people in all parts of the world in terrible conditions with workers often trafficked or involved in human slavery. Low quality manufacturing can also make products dangerous to wear or use.
"Profits from counterfeit goods help to fund other crime including drug supply, human trafficking, organised crime groups and money laundering. The counterfeit trade impacts the UK economy with the loss of millions of pounds of revenue each year which could be put towards public services and the national infrastructure. I would urge people to reconsider their choices when faced with the option to buy fake goods and ask that if anyone encounters a counterfeit seller they report them."
Information can be passed to police by calling 101 or by submitting a report online using the non-emergency reporting form. The public can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online.
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The PSNI Crime Operations Department’s robust stance against organised criminals has helped net counterfeit goods worth over £200,000 throughout the month of January 2007. The Organised Crime Squad seized fake DVDs, CDs, computer games and cigarettes in various searches across Northern Ireland.
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PSNI Warns Shoppers Of Buying Counterfeit Goods
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23 May 2003
Police uncover two counterfeit goods operations
Police have closed down two separate counterfeit goods operations one in Belfast and one located in Portadown worth over £350,000. A range of equipment worth an estimated £200,000 was uncovered by police officers from the Serious and Organised Crime Unit in Portadown yesterday.
Police uncover two counterfeit goods operations
Police have closed down two separate counterfeit goods operations one in Belfast and one located in Portadown worth over £350,000. A range of equipment worth an estimated £200,000 was uncovered by police officers from the Serious and Organised Crime Unit in Portadown yesterday.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
