Authorities seize over $2M in counterfeit goods tied to TikTok livestream sellers

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UK police arrested six people after discovering a warehouse where social media influencers were reportedly broadcasting a livestream of fake goods to a large TikTok audience.

Police investigated TikTok Shop accounts suspected of selling counterfeit products. The investigation, conducted by the Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit (PIPCU) at the City of London Police, focused on accounts using influencers to sell these fake goods during live video streams.

Police say scammers used warehouse-like spaces to host livestreams featuring influencers. During these broadcasts, the influencers displayed large quantities of products, answered questions from viewers, and falsely claimed the items were authentic. The livestreams were set up to quickly boost sales on TikTok.

Police entered the warehouse while a suspect was broadcasting a live video on TikTok, showing fake items. Officers quickly ended the livestream as they executed the search warrant.

Police seize over $2 million worth of counterfeit goods

Police have arrested six people for selling fake products, a violation of the Trademarks Act 1994. During the operation, they confiscated over $2 million worth of counterfeit clothes, shoes, and other accessories.

Investigators discovered a large stash of fake goods – over 26,000 items – in one warehouse. This included counterfeit sneakers valued at around $1.35 million and fake socks worth about $157,000.

Investigators found roughly $1 million in stolen clothes and shoes. They reported that the recovered items were so numerous they required four large trucks, each weighing 18 tons, to haul them away.

So, the investigation found out that these livestreamers weren’t just getting paid a flat fee. It looks like they were on commission – the more stuff they sold during their streams, the more money they made. Basically, it was like they were getting a bonus for hitting sales targets, which is pretty interesting – and maybe a little shady, depending on how it was all handled.

Detective Sergeant Jamie Kirk of the Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit (PIPCU) explained that the sale of fake goods has changed over time. It’s no longer limited to street markets; now, it happens through apps and online platforms. This case specifically involved people with large social media followings promoting and selling these counterfeit items.

Selling fake products online is against the law, and this case demonstrates that we will actively pursue and prosecute those who do so.

Police are also cautioning people that fake clothes and shoes might not be safe. They may not meet standard safety requirements and could even contain dangerous chemicals or easily catch fire.

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2026-05-08 23:50