Six arrested as police target TikTok shop influencers pushing counterfeit goods in Rotherham
City of London Police turned up at a warehouse - finding someone livestreaming and trying to sell fake clothing
Six people have been arrested after police targeted TikTok shop influencers and seized more than £1 million worth of counterfeit clothing and trainers.
City of London Police said the Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit (PIPCU) officers entered a warehouse in Rotherham and found a suspect livestreaming on TikTok selling counterfeit items.
Police said TikTok shop accounts using influencers to push counterfeit goods to thousands of viewers frequently livestream from warehouse-style setups, showcasing large amounts of stock while claiming the items are genuine.
The content is designed to drive rapid sales directly through the app, police said.
Six people were arrested on suspicion of distributing goods bearing false trademarks under the Trademarks Act 1994.
Police said the total value of items seized amounted to £1,162,036, and 26,849 counterfeit items were taken from a single warehouse.
Officers also uncovered £1,000,000 worth of clothing and trainers believed to be stolen.
The items seized by officers during the operation filled up four 18-tonne lorries.
The investigation also revealed a commission scheme that rewarded influencers with higher earnings for every item sold during their livestreams.
Detective Sergeant Jamie Kirk, from PIPCU, said: “This investigation shows how the sale of counterfeit goods has evolved, moving from traditional market stalls to modern apps and online marketplaces.
“In this case, influencers were used to promote and sell counterfeit products to large audiences.
“This case should send a clear message to anybody selling counterfeit goods online: it is illegal and we will take action.”