Trading Standards officers from Barking and Dagenham Council have seized a large quantity of counterfeit mobile phone accessories during an enforcement visit, following a complaint from a member of the public.

The items were falsely branded and claimed to be genuine products from well‑known names including Louis Vuitton, Swarovski, Apple, Samsung, Nike, Adidas, Guess and Chanel.

Seized goods included counterfeit mobile phone covers, batteries, and unsafe electrical adapters, with an estimated retail value of £11,500.

Counterfeit items aren’t just cheap copies - they are often untested, unsafe, and potentially dangerous, particularly when they involve electrical components. The counterfeit goods trade is also frequently linked to organised criminal networks, including exploitation and people trafficking.

The trader involved now faces further investigation and enforcement action, with a view to prosecution through the courts.

Councillor Syed Ghani, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety, said: "Counterfeit goods put our residents at risk and undermine honest local businesses. The items seized in this operation were not only illegal but potentially dangerous. Our Trading Standards team will continue to take firm action against anyone selling unsafe or counterfeit products in our borough. 

“We encourage residents to report anything suspicious so we can keep our communities safe.”

If residents have concerns about any businesses in Barking and Dagenham selling counterfeit or unsafe goods, please contact Trading Standards at: tradingstandards@lbbd.gov.uk