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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.
"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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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A rather cloudy morning with outbreaks of rain spreading east, the rain turning more showery for the afternoon with some sunny spells developing, the showers largely dying out by evening. Maximum temperature 18 °C.Tonight:A mainly fine evening with some late sunny then clear spells. Increasing cloud will then bring a band of occasionally heavy showers southeast through the early hours. Minimum temperature 6 °C.
