The detrimental effects of Manchester's counterfeit industry on our communities

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

Buying a fake designer perfume or top might not actually be worth it despite what many consumers believe. The Strangeways area of Cheetham Hill has long been associated with the sale of fake goods.

By selling copies of designer t-shirts, tracksuits, jewellery and handbags, they've earned the title of 'counterfeit streets' among shoppers. This type of illegal trade has led to littering, damage to the environment, and anti-social behaviour in this area that the public can help to prevent.

For the last three years, repetitive raids by police and Trading Standards in this area have cleared out many of the fraudulent shops. In July 2022, thousands of pounds worth of fake items were found at a single premise.

It was discovered that several different businesses were selling fake goods in different units under one roof. They received closure orders from the Magistrates Court, to ensure they remain shut for a number of months.

However, many similar items still remain on sale in the area and on the wider market today. The effects are detrimental, with links to human slavery and other associated crimes that impact the communities people live and work in.

Detective superintendent Neil Blackwood says: "The sale of counterfeit goods is not a victimless crime. Though these desired items may look good, and are cheap, they are funding a much wider picture that involves money laundering, organised crime and cheap labour.

"The profits from counterfeit goods can be used to fund other serious crime too, and often that comes with violence which can have a devastating ripple effect on communities, as well as affecting legitimate and hard-working businesses. The sale of these goods puts money directly into the hands of criminals, which is