Police seize counterfeit goods worth hundreds of thousands in Cookstown crackdown

Police in Cookstown have seized counterfeit goods potentially worth hundreds of thousands of pounds during a coordinated operation targeting illegal trading in the town.

The seizure was made on Monday, 15th December, when officers from the Cookstown Neighbourhood Team, supported by the District Support Team and Trading Standards, carried out proactive searches at a number of houses and business premises.

During the operation, conducted as part of Operation Season’s Greetings, officers uncovered large quantities of suspected fake clothing, trainers, shoes, bags and other so-called ‘designer’ items.

“Not a victimless crime”

Police say the operation was aimed at disrupting organised criminal activity while also protecting consumers during the busy Christmas shopping period, when people may be more tempted by what appear to be bargain purchases.

Cookstown Neighbourhood Sergeant Evan Maxwell warned that buying counterfeit goods is far from harmless.

He said:

“With finances tight for almost everyone, particularly at this time of year, it can be very tempting to see buying fake products like these as an easy way to get the item you want at a cheaper price, surely it’s a harmless and victimless crime? Sadly it is often the case that this couldn’t be further from the truth.

“Counterfeit goods are predominantly made by people in other parts of the world in terrible conditions, with low to no pay. Workers can also victims of trafficking or human slavery.

“Low quality manufacturing can also make products potentially dangerous to you, the end buyer.

“Profits from the sale of fake products help to fund organised crime groups who are involved in other crimes like drug dealing, that we know local people do not want in their community.

“I would urge people to reconsider their choices when faced with the option to buy counterfeit goods this Christmas, no matter how good a ‘bargain’ it may seem. Please report anything you know to us and we will investigate. Call 101 or provide information online via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/

“You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or at their website http://crimestoppers-uk.org”

Community impact at Christmas

Police say the operation highlights the hidden human cost behind counterfeit goods, including exploitation, unsafe working conditions and links to organised crime that can affect local communities.

As Christmas approaches and household budgets are under pressure, officers are urging shoppers to think carefully about where goods are coming from and to report any suspected counterfeit sales.

Investigations into the seized items are continuing.