More suspect goods seized by Moray trading standards

A haul of goods suspected of being counterfeit has been seized from an address in Moray in the latest joint operation involving Moray Council trading standards officers and Police Scotland.

The raid followed a trading standards investigation into alleged sales of counterfeit goods through a secret Facebook group and follows an almost identical operation earlier this month.

Officers recovered electrical goods, cosmetics, clothes and footwear at the trader’s home address, together with order books and records of sales.

Trading standards believes that sales of fake goods through secret Facebook groups is part of trend of illicit business going underground to avoid detection.

Moray Council trading standards manager Peter Adamson said: “Genuine cosmetics are made under strict hygiene standards and are thoroughly tested for safety. Fake cosmetics are not tested and can be made in unhygienic conditions. Fake cosmetics put you at risk of skin irritations or allergic reactions.”

Mr Adamson said that examination of hair straighteners seized earlier in November showed that they probably do not comply with electrical safety regulations.

“These items have been sent for specialist testing. I would advise against using these products if you suspect they are fakes. We can examine items for you if you suspect that you have bought a fake.”

Trading standards are asking the local community to help keep Moray ‘fake free’ and shoppers are advised to purchase only from reputable sources.

Anyone with concerns about counterfeit goods should call 03454 040506 or email trading.standards@moray.gov.uk or report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.