Fake bling costs trader £375 fine

An east Belfast jeweller has been found guilty of selling counterfeit designer jewellery.

Karine Trabelsi was fined £375 for selling fake Tiffany, Gucci and Dolce and Gabanna jewellery at Connswater Shopping Centre.

Trading Standard Officers found the fake jewellery in 2005 at her Karine & Co premises in the centre.

She was was found guilty of five offences under the Trade Marks Act at Belfast Magistrates Court.

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.