Police Seize Millions in Fake World Cup Jerseys, Warn of Dangers

The World Cup sparked a surge in sales of cheaper, counterfeit jerseys, but fire departments and investigators are warning of their increased flammability and harmful substances.

The UK's Intellectual Property Crime Unit seized over 220,000 jerseys during several operations. In one raid, police removed 1,618 fake items from a warehouse in Birmingham.

The primary driver for these purchases is the lower price point of the jerseys. Several websites are selling them for as little as £12. “I understand why people want to buy these products. However, these jerseys are not subject to any quality control and can be highly flammable. They contain dyes that could harm the skin, especially in children. The potential damage to buyers, as well as those manufacturing the jerseys, is simply too high,” Sergeant Jamie Kirk told BBC Sport.

Counterfeit products do not comply with British or European health and safety regulations. According to Kate Caffrey, one of the case workers, there is evidence that “counterfeit goods are produced by people in appalling conditions” and “for criminal groups and gangs who can target markets where there is demand.” The start of the new Premier League season is expected to present another opportunity for these illicit sales.