'Dodgy' Phone Devices Found in Southall Swoop

---

Counterfeit devices to the value of half a million seized

Hundreds of unsafe phone chargers, USB devices and phone accessories have been seized from four businesses based in Charles House, Southall following an investigation into counterfeit goods.

Fake mobile phone chargers, USB devices and mobile phone accessories using unauthorised Apple, Sony, LG, Nokia, Windows, HTC and Samsung trade marks were all seized.

Trading standards officers from Ealing led the operation with support from Enfield, Royal Greenwich, Hammersmith & Fulham, Kensington & Chelsea, Merton, Richmond and Southwark councils. Local police and Home Officer Immigrations and Enforcement officers were also present.

As part of the operation, four electronics and mobile phone accessory wholesalers, based at Charles House industrial estate on Bridge Road, were visited to ensure the goods being sold met safety and quality standards. A number of specialists including computer forensics, product safety and counterfeit expert officers and a dog team were also involved.

Ealing Council leader, Councillor Julian Bell, said: “This raid has taken approximately £500,000 worth of dodgy products off the market. It’s disgusting that businesses are disregarding the safety of our residents by selling these products. We are taking the issue at its root by going after the wholesalers. We will continue to do everything in our power to take enforcement action and rid our community of these operators.”
Trading Standards teams joined together for the large-scale operation because some unsafe or counterfeit items found for sale in their boroughs are believed to originate from Charles House. Wandsworth and Hounslow councils have also been involved in the project.

 

8th January 2014