Council officers have confiscated a massive haul of counterfeit products, including fake Apple AirPods, with an estimated value of £150,000 from a well-known Black Country market.
Major Enforcement Operation at Popular Market
The significant seizure took place on Sunday, December 10, following a targeted operation at Bescot Market. Officers from Walsall Trading Standards, supported by West Midlands Police and private brand protection experts, visited three separate stalls suspected of selling illegal goods.
A wide range of fake items were removed, but authorities highlighted the particular danger posed by the counterfeit AirPods. A spokesperson for Walsall Council warned that such electrical goods often contain substandard components that can overheat, malfunction, or even cause hearing damage, presenting a genuine risk to consumers.
A Long-Running Partnership Against Counterfeits
This raid is part of a sustained collaborative effort involving Walsall Trading Standards, the National Markets Group (NMG), and Walsall Football Club. The partnership aims to stamp out the sale of illegal and unsafe products in the area.
The initiative has yielded substantial results. According to officials, the number of stalls at the market selling counterfeit goods has plummeted from approximately 30 in 2020 to just 3 in 2025.
Councillor Adam Hicken, Portfolio Holder for Enforcement and Safe Communities, praised the progress: "Bescot Market has made huge strides in recent years, and we recognise the hard work of the market operator and Walsall FC in helping to tackle counterfeit trading."
Ongoing Vigilance and Consumer Safety
Councillor Hicken emphasised the broader impact, stating: "Counterfeit goods undermine legitimate businesses and can be dangerous for consumers. Electrical products in particular can put people at risk of fire, shock or hearing injury."
He confirmed that while the situation has improved dramatically, enforcement action will continue to ensure counterfeit and unsafe items have no place in Walsall. The council remains committed to its joint work with the NMG, the market operator, and the police to maintain compliance and protect the public.
Residents who suspect counterfeit goods are being sold are urged to report their concerns via the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133.
