Warning about fake goods

TRADING standards officers today issued a warning to street traders after they swooped on an Ipswich stall thought to be selling fake mobile phone covers.

The officers seized more than 50 covers from the town centre stall.

It was suspected that the trademark holder had not given permission for the trademarks on the covers.

If the covers are found to be counterfeit, they could be destroyed.

Anyone who sells counterfeit or unsafe goods could face prosecution.

The town centre sweep, done by three Suffolk County Council trading standards officers, followed several complaints from members of the public.

Mike Collins, principal trading standards officer, said people had suspected a mobile phone accessories stall and a watch stall of selling fake goods.

The officers checked three other stalls during the sweep, including one selling socks, one selling gloves and scarves and one selling watches.

But they found no problem with these stalls and no other goods were seized.

Jill Korwin, assistant trading standards officer, said: “Christmas can be a stressful time of year for consumers.

“We carry out these checks to make sure that when consumers' guards may be down, they aren't exposed to poor quality goods.

“We will carry out these checks anywhere we believe counterfeit or unsafe goods may be sold.

“These people are selling illegal and generally poor quality goods to consumers and taking money away from legitimate businesses.

“These checks go on throughout the year, not just in the run up to Christmas. The message is very clear - if you are selling illegal, poor-quality goods in Suffolk, expect a visit from us.

“We will continue to carry out this work to protect the safety of Suffolk consumers and ensure legitimate businesses don't lose trade.”

Anyone who suspects they have bought or seen for sale counterfeit or unsafe goods should contact Consumer Direct on 08454 040506.