Hull Trading Standards seize thousands of dangerous counterfeit goods
Operation Bramble targets local retailers following public tips
Hull City Council's Trading Standards officers have successfully seized thousands of potentially dangerous counterfeit items from local shops during a two-day operation dubbed Operation Bramble.
Among the illicit goods confiscated were toys, baby feeding bottles, candles, cosmetics, tobacco products, and paraphernalia—all of which failed to meet UK safety standards and posed serious risks to consumers.
The operation, conducted at over 60 retailers, was prompted by information flood from the public following previous seizures of contaminated counterfeit toys containing the harmful chemical benzene.
Accompanied by Cllr Ted Dolman, who oversees Trading Standards, officers witnessed firsthand the extent of unsafe products being sold and the vital role of enforcement in protecting the community.
Cllr Dolman expressed his commitment to tackling the issue after observing the operation, thanking the public for aiding the sweep by reporting dangerous goods seen for sale.
"This is work that is often unseen but critical," Dolman noted, highlighting the risks posed by these seized items, which could lead to choking, poisoning, burns, chemical exposure, and more.
The success of Operation Bramble underscores the importance of public intelligence, which supports Trading Standards in proactive inspections and safety enforcement activities.
Hull residents are encouraged to report suspect counterfeit or unsafe products to Citizen’s Advice at 0808 223 1133, who will coordinate with local teams for immediate response.