THOUSANDS of counterfeit toys and items of clothing have been seized in a major pre-Christmas crackdown.

More than 2,000 toys confiscated during raids at shops and market stalls in Dartford were of poor quality and potentially dangerous.

The raids were carried out by Kent Trading Standards as part of a county wide operation.

In total 2,108 toys and 2,105 items of clothing were seized in three premises on December 11 and December 16.

Some of the items included Bratz dolls, Doctor Who and Scooby Doo figures, Abercrombie and Fitch, Adidas, Juicy Couture clothing and Nike footwear.

No arrests have been made but investigations are being carried out by Kent Trading Standards and the toys are being safety tested.

Suspects will be interviewed on the suspicion of selling counterfeit goods and reports will be submitted for legal consideration.

A spokesperson at Kent County Council said that because investigations are underway, the names of the suspects and the premises cannot yet be identified.

The raids were carried out after information received from customers, trade mark holders and inspections carried out by trading standard officers.

Area manager for Kent Trading Standards, Richard Strawson said: “We are pleased that we were able to seize these goods, helping to save consumers being affected financially and from the possible dangers of fake toys, which have not been thoroughly tested.”

The UK market for counterfeit goods is currently estimated at £1 billion, according to the Serious and Organised Crime Agency.

Kent County Council cabinet member for community services, Mike Hill said: “These latest raids have helped save customers money and have protected children from receiving fake and possibly dangerous toys this Christmas.

“We are all attracted by bargains and these traders have been cashing on that.

“At a time when businesses are feeling the pinch too, it is important that action is take against unscrupulous individuals and organisations.”

Shoppers are urged to be on the look out for counterfeit goods and to call Consumer Direct on 08454 040 506 to report anything suspicious.