Warning over fake electrical goods scam

Investigators suspect tens of thousands of pounds worth of counterfeit power tools and clothing imported from China have been sold by door-to-door salesmen across the country.

They said the cheap imitations, including electricity generators, power drills and chainsaws, did not comply with any European safety standards and could potentially be deadly.

Police said the transportation and distribution of the goods was co-ordinated by an organised crime gang based in Naples which made millions of pounds in profit over several years.

News of the racket came yesterday as police in seven countries across Europe, including Britain, swooped on suspected gang members and properties used to stash the products.

Specialist anti-mafia prosecutors arrested seven people in Naples and seized assets worth more than 10m, including almost 4m in cash held at banks and safety deposit boxes.

Action also took place in the Czech Republic, Germany, France, Sweden and Spain, all co-ordinated by international agencies Europol and Eurojust.

In Britain a property suspected of being used as a satellite base by gang members was searched in Edinburgh.

Benoit Godart, who led the operation for Europol, said no-one was arrested at the property, but paperwork and other evidence was seized that would contribute towards the overall case.