‘Large quantities’ of counterfeit goods seized in Cheetham Hill raids as nine arrested

Nine people have been arrested as ‘large quantities’ of counterfeit goods were seized in a series of police raids in Cheetham Hill.

The raids took place on Monday, July 18th, across various locations situated in the Cheetham Hill area of North Manchester.

They were carried out by officers from Greater Manchester Police alongside other forces and agencies, including North West Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit, City of London Police’s Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit, and the Intellectual Property Office. 

During the raids, police seized what they described as ‘large quantities’ of counterfeit goods, drugs and cash.

GMP says these types of crimes currently being committed across Cheetham Hill have gone on to have an impact ‘locally, regionally and nationally’.

Detective Superintendent Neil Blackwood said: “This week of intensification is about so much more than the counterfeit goods trade, which Cheetham Hill and more specifically the Strangeways area is nationally known for.

“The trade, which often involves organised crime groups, is strongly linked to money laundering and immigration offences. We also know the area is a hotspot for sexual offences and traffic offences.

“Too often, unbeknownst to members of the public who buy counterfeit goods, they are  produced using poor quality materials and/or banned substances which put health at risk.

GMP

“We will be taking proactive and robust action against this trade in Strangeways. Members of the public can be reassured that this is a priority for us.”

Detective Sergeant Adam Williams from the North West Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit added: “The counterfeit goods trade isn’t a victimless crime.

“Often criminals use the profits to fund other organised crime, and with that often comes violence, which can have devastating effects on the local community. 

“This week’s activity should send a clear message. We will stop at nothing to tackle this issue and it’s a priority we will continue to crack down on.”