Belfast jeweller fined for selling counterfeit Tiffany

Belfast Jeweller Karine Trabelsi was today fined a total of £375.00 at Belfast Magistrates’ Court for selling counterfeit Tiffany, Gucci and Dolce & Gabanna jewellery.

In a case brought by the Trading Standards Service of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, Ms Trabelsi, who traded as ‘Karine & Co’ at Connswater Shopping Centre, Bloomfield Avenue, was found guilty of five offences under the Trade Marks Act 1994.

In November 2005 Trading Standard Officers visited Ms Trabelsi’s premises at Connswater Shopping centre where they discovered the counterfeit fashion jewellery on sale.

Caroline Martin of the Trading Standards Service said, “These items were being sold for a considerable amount of money, making customers believe the jewellery was genuine. In the run-up to Christmas shoppers should be on their guard.”

Anyone who believes they have been sold counterfeit goods should contact Consumerline on 0845 600 6262.

Notes to Editors:

1. The Trade Marks Act 1994 creates offences for applying trade marks to goods without the permission of the trade mark holder and for supplying and offering to supply those goods.
2. For media enquiries please contact the DETI Press Office, telephone 028 9052 9297.
3. Outside office hours, please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.