Six arrested as police target TikTok livestreamers pushing counterfeit goods

Six people have been arrested following a police operation targeting TikTok store influencers that resulted in the seizure of counterfeit clothes and trainers worth £1 million.

Officers from the City of London Police’s Intellectual Property Crime Unit (PIPCU) raided a warehouse in Rotherham where they discovered a suspect actively livestreaming on TikTok while dealing in the sale of illegal goods.

Police have found that TikTok store accounts often use influencers to promote fake products to thousands of viewers. These operations often involve live broadcasts from warehouse-style environments, with large amounts of stock displayed under the claim that the products are authentic. This content is specifically designed to drive quick sales directly through the app.

Six people were arrested on suspicion of distributing goods bearing false trademarks, an offense under the Trademark Act 1994.

Police said the total value of the seized items was £1,162,036 and 26,849 counterfeit items were seized from a single warehouse.

Officers also discovered £1,000,000 worth of clothes and trainers believed to have been stolen.

The items seized by police teams during the operation were filled into 4 trucks of 18 tons.

The investigation also uncovered a commission scheme that rewarded influencers with higher earnings for each product sold during their live streams.

Detective Sergeant Jamie Kirk, from PIPCU, said: “This investigation shows how the sale of counterfeit goods is evolving from traditional market stalls to modern applications and online marketplaces.

“In this case, influencers were used to promote and sell counterfeit products to large audiences.

“This case should send a clear message to anyone selling fake products online: It is illegal and we will take action.”