Warning on fake Christmas presents

They say counterfeit hair straightness, designer clothes, watches, toys and CDs are among the items which commonly go on sale in the area either through markets or websites.

Officers are currently working with partners in trading standards to investigate offences and are advising that many fake products will not comply with UK health and safety regulations while some, such as counterfeit electrical items, could be dangerous.

Fake goods, most notably pirated DVDs, have often been reported for sale in the Bradford and Keighley area, and police have confiscated a number of discs over the past year.

In the latest investigation, detectives investigating counterfeiting, arrested a 53-year-old woman in Bradford on suspicion of offences.

A number of items of computer equipment were seized and the woman was bailed pending further enquiries.

Det Sgt Dave Marston of Airedale and North Bradford police said: “We have received intelligence about the alleged sale of counterfeit goods in Airedale and North Bradford and would advise residents to be careful of what they buy.

“As a rule, if something seems too good to be true it almost certainly will be and there are absolutely no guarantees about safety or quality with a lot of these products.

“Would you really be happy giving electrical equipment or toys which could be dangerous to a loved one?”

He added: “We also know that historically, money from counterfeiting can find its way into crime and would urge anyone who has information about counterfeiting in our area to contact Airedale and North Bradford CID on 101 or CrimeStoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”