The City of London Police has uncovered a large-scale operation involving fake branded clothes being sold through livestreams on TikTok.Six people have been arrested after police raided a warehouse in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, where TikTok influencers were allegedly livestreaming the sale of counterfeit clothing and trainers.Officers reportedly interrupted a live broadcast as the operation was underway, exposing how social media was being used to push fake branded goods to large online audiences.
Massive seizure of fake goods worth over £1 million
Authorities seized between 26,000 and 26,800 items depending on reports, with the total value of counterfeit goods estimated at over £1.1 million. The haul included nearly £1 million worth of fake branded trainers and over £100,000 worth of counterfeit socks.A further cache of clothing and footwear, also believed to be stolen, was valued at around another £1 million. The seized items reportedly filled four 18-tonne lorries.
TikTok livestreams used to push fake products
Investigators found that influencers were promoting the counterfeit goods during livestreams, often claiming the items were genuine. Some videos showed creators standing beside stacked boxes of branded-looking trainers and socks, while assuring viewers of authenticity.The content was designed to drive rapid sales directly through TikTok Shop-style features.
Commission scheme to boost fake sales
The investigation also revealed a structured “commission cheat sheet” system, where influencers were reportedly rewarded with higher payments based on the number of items they managed to sell during livestreams. This incentivised aggressive promotion of the fake goods to maximise profits.
Police crackdown and ongoing probe
The operation, led by the Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit under City of London Police, resulted in six arrests on suspicion of distributing goods with false trademarks under the Trademarks Act 1994. All suspects have since been released on bail or under investigation as inquiries continue.
Warning over safety and illegal trade
Detective Sergeant Jamie Kirk said the case highlights how counterfeit sales have shifted from street markets to digital platforms, warning that authorities will continue taking strict action.Officials also cautioned consumers that counterfeit products are often poor quality and may pose safety risks, including harmful materials and flammability concerns.
