Fake goods clampdown at Kempton Park market

Jun 12 2009 By Adam Courtney

A BLITZ on dodgy stall holders at Kempton Market has resulted in two convictions, including for a man who tried to sell 600 fraudulent items.

Trading Standards are clamping down on sellers trying to con people into buying fake goods, including clothing, DVDs and dangerous toys.

And their efforts have resulted in two men being taken away from the popular market, which can attract huge crowds throughout the years.

Last week, Mussa Ghaffar, of Abbess Close in Beckton, London, pleaded guilty to 13 counts of trying to selling clothes and shoes with false trademarks. He will reappear at the court on June 24 for sentencing.

It follows on from the conviction of Surbeer Luthra, from Hayes, whose stall was raided in July last year and was found to contained 615 counterfeit items, accounting for 75% of his stock on the day.

Prosecuted under the Trademarks Act, he was ordered to carry out 84 hours of community service and pay court costs of over £1,000.

The convictions have pleased Kempton Park regular Donna Cash, from Staines Road West, Sunbury, who said: "Some of the goods these people are selling look very realistic but when, after a couple of weeks, they start falling apart, you realised you've been conned. It's good for the peace of mind to know they're clamping down."

Peter Denard, Surrey County Council’s Head of Trading Standards, said: "We are delighted with the result of this case. Counterfeiting is a crime that we will not tolerate in Surrey and we will prosecute those behind it.

"There are dangers posed by many fake products, in particular toys, cosmetics and electrical goods. Unsuspecting customers hand over their hard-earned money for goods that are essentially worthless and potentially harmful.

"Counterfeiting also damages the economy and the workers that make these goods are often treated appallingly. We all love a bargain but at a time when reputable businesses are fighting for survival counterfeiting is a real threat to economic stability."

The seized goods will have their branding removed and then be given to charity.