Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland's Organised Crime Branch have conducted successful raids earlier today, seizing a significant amount of counterfeit Apple and other high street brand electronics. Over 20,000 items, including AirPods, Apple chargers, iPhones, smartwatches, mobile phones, phone cases, cables, and vapes, were confiscated during searches at two locations in Belfast and Portadown, with assistance from local District Support Teams.
Detective Sergeant Mason, leading the operation, revealed that the collective value of the seized goods represents an estimated brand loss of £600,000 to Apple and other high street brands. The investigation was initiated following seizures made in December 2023 in the East Midlands.
During the operation, a 24-year-old man was arrested in Portadown on suspicion of immigration offences and is currently being questioned at Musgrave Police Station.
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Detective Sergeant Mason emphasized the pervasive nature of counterfeiting, warning consumers about the hidden dangers associated with counterfeit goods. He highlighted the link between the sale of counterfeit products and serious organized crime, including drug dealing, money laundering, and human trafficking. Moreover, he stressed the health and safety risks posed by counterfeit items, particularly electrical goods that do not undergo proper testing and quality control, potentially endangering consumers' lives and property.
In addition to financial losses and safety hazards, Detective Sergeant Mason shed light on the exploitative conditions in which counterfeit goods are often produced. Sweatshops employ vulnerable individuals who work in deplorable conditions for minimal pay.
The seizure serves as a stark reminder of the multifaceted risks associated with counterfeit goods, urging consumers to remain vigilant and informed about the products they purchase. Through collaborative efforts, law enforcement agencies aim to combat the proliferation of counterfeit goods and dismantle the criminal networks behind their production and distribution.
Source: Police Service of Northern Ireland https://www.psni.police.uk/
