Think twice about buying counterfeit goods - Justice Minister

Claire Sugden says people who purchase counterfeit goods are unwittingly funding organised crime

The Justice Minister Claire Sugden says people who purchase counterfeit goods are unwittingly funding organised crime - including those with links to paramilitaries.

She launching a hard hitting advertisement campaign to help prevent it.

“We need everyone’s support to tackle the scourge of organised crime. If you buy even one counterfeit top, or one bottle of fake perfume, you are unwittingly funding the work of organised crime groups."

It is estimated that there are well over 100 organised crime groups working within Northern Ireland, who are involved in the supply of counterfeit goods.

The advertising campaign is part of the Fresh Start Agreement and the Executive action plan on tackling paramilitary activity.

“Work this year includes additional funding for forensic science, work to reduce re-offending and speeding up the delivery of justice. We are also working closely with law enforcement agencies to develop a range of detailed initiatives", said the Minister. 

The Minister said there are no quick fixes to the problem of ridding society of organised crime gangs and the Executive cannot do it on their own.

"People in Northern Ireland need to make a choice; turn a blind eye to criminality or take a stand and say no to those who are set on inflicting harm on our communities. I would encourage anyone with information to contact the PSNI or Crimestoppers anonymously.”  

Gary Reid, PSNI Detective Superintendent Reactive and Organised Crime said: “Police need the support of the community to help tackle this hidden crime. It is not harmless and there are real victims as a consequence of peoples actions in buying such products. We hope that this campaign will help educate people about the ramifications of the harm caused as a result of inadvertently supporting organised crime gangs through what might seem harmless purchases.”