Dad and son found locked inside counterfeit shop 'against their will' as police swoop

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

A dad and his son were found locked inside a 'counterfeit street' shop as officers descended. Greater Manchester Police says the pair were being held 'against their will' by shopkeepers at the premises on Great Ducie Street earlier today (July 18).

It was the latest raid to be carried out in the Strangeways area as part of Operation Vulcan, which has been clamping down on the counterfeit trade since last autumn.

Three men, aged between 24 and 33, were arrested on suspicion of trademark offences and remain in custody for questioning. Officers sawed shutters outside the shop before smashing through doors to discover the dad and his son.

Counterfeit clothing, footwear, electronics and accessories were also seized from inside. Try MEN Premium for FREE by clicking here for no ads, fun puzzles and brilliant new features Inspector Andy Torkington, from GMP’s Operation Vulcan, said: "In an area that was once well known for the sale of counterfeit goods, it is a testament to the dedication of our officers and staff alongside partner agencies who continue to ensure that those who distribute, sell and profit from the selling of these goods are brought to justice. “It is remarkable that even though it has been nine months since the creation of Operation Vulcan, a small contingency of criminals continue to think that they can open shops and profit from illicit activity.