On Friday 2 June 2017, Meraj Gul, aged 34 was sentenced to 30 months in prison at Inner London Crown Court, after pleading guilty to selling goods with unauthorised trademarks of a variety of Music artists including Justin Bieber and One Direction between March 2012 and February 2015,

Gul produced, sold and distributed fake merchandise bearing the branding and logos of music artists and designer brands , via eBay, totalling over £150,000.

After investigative work by Surelock, The Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit (PIPCU) carried out raids on two addresses in London seizing product and manufacturing equipment

Acting Detective Superintendent and Head of the Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit (PIPCU), Peter Ratcliffe, said:

“This sentencing proves that producing, selling and distributing fake goods online will not go unpunished. Not only does this act deprive the creative industry of revenue, it also puts the livelihoods of those working in it at risk.”

“We hope that this sentencing sends a warning to those carrying out this type of criminal activity and that their actions are not without consequences.”

Director of Surelock, Ron Harrison, said:

“Surelock are one of the UK’s most pro-active brand protection companies, who represent a number of clients including music artists where we act as enforcement agents for Trademarks and Rightsholders Against Piracy (TRAP). We received excellent service and cooperation from City of London Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit (PIPCU). A large amount of counterfeit merchandise was seized and this was ultimately a very successful operation for which we are grateful.”