Police in South Belfast have seized a substantial quantity of suspected counterfeit goods.

The seizure followed a planned search of premises in King Street today by local uniformed officers and officers from the Intellectual Property Crime Unit supported by a representative from FACT – the Federation Against Copyright Theft.

Three men have been arrested.

The haul included fireworks, DVDs, a wide range of clothing and footwear.

Inspector Robert Murdie from South Belfast has said that this operation sends out a clear message that police will be pursuing anyone suspected of being involved in selling counterfeit goods.

“Many counterfeit goods are of poor quality which do not perform or last as long as is expected and coming up to Christmas – that is only going to bring disappointment. People should also bear in mind – there is no chance of a refund.

“The sale of counterfeit goods not only damages the business of the legitimate manufacturer of the goods – it damages local legitimate businesses selling the products.”