Counterfeit Street crackdown continues as police shut down two shops that had 'reopened in time for Christmas'

Two shops which flouted a crackdown on Manchester's notorious Counterfeit Street by reopening 'in time for Christmas' have been raided by police. Around £500,000 of fake items were seized and the stores closed down after warrants were executed on Bury New Road on Friday.

Despite a long-running and widespread crackdown known as Operation Vulcan, which has seen dozens of counterfeit shops closed down, some shopkeepers continue to try defy the police. But after neighbourhood bobbies from Cheetham Hill spotted customers walking along Bury New Road with bags of shopping, the latest businesses to try starting back up were swiftly closed down.

Det Sgt Matt Donnelly said: "These results today demonstrate just how important it is that Operation Vulcan remain in the area. The criminals operating here are so brazen, the minute they think they spot an opening, they're back up and running as though it's business as usual.

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"We're here to show them that this isn't the case, and we will not stop until these illegitimate shops are eradicated and those responsible are locked up. I hope this is a warning that no matter how many times you try to reopen, we will continue to seize your belongings and profits, making sure none of this money can make its way back into the criminal market."

Coun Luthfur Rahman, deputy leader of Manchester council, added:"Over the past 12 months we have achieved a great deal through Operation Vulcan. Through our partnership with GMP gangs have been run out of Cheetham Hill and people have been allowed to feel safe in their own neighbourhoods.