£1 million of fake designer goods advertised on TikTok seized in Smethwick
Fake products from Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Apple and more were seized from a warehouse
Over £1 million worth of fake designer goods have been seized from a warehouse in Smethwick following an investigation into the use of social media to advertise the products.
Sandwell Council’s Trading Standards officers, in partnership with West Midlands Police and brand protection officers from WRi Group, recovered items including trainers, watches, scarves, perfumes and electronic goods.
The seizure followed an investigation into the use of TikTok to advertise fake products for sale and saw brands such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Apple, Canada Goose, Moncler, Rolex, Burberry and Nike affected.
A Trading Standards Officer from Sandwell Council said the use of social media in this type of crime is a growing concern.
"We are very aware that social media is increasingly being used to advertise and sell conterfreit goods," the officer said.
"But we work very proactively with our partners to identify and disrupt this activity."
Evidence suggests the goods seized during the raid on May 13 were imported from China and Hong Kong, the council said.
Councillor Bob Jones, Cabinet Member for Environment and Enforcement said: “The council is committed to working with partner organisations to protect consumers and tackle illegal trading.
“Consumers are urged to avoid buying counterfeit goods, as they are often unsafe, poor quality and not covered by consumer protections.
"Purchasing such items may also contribute to criminal activity.
“Previous testing has found counterfeit perfumes can contain harmful chemicals, while fake electronics may cause fire hazards, electrical faults and potential hearing damage.”
Sandwell Council said investigations are ongoing to bring the perpetrators to justice and concerns surrounding counterfeit goods can be reported to the Citizens Advice Consumer Service online or by calling 0808 223 1133.