The ELSPA anti-piracy unit was at it again as it recently cracked down on more illegal video game traders found at the Bradford Computer fair. A joint operation between the West Yorkshire Trading Standards Service (WYTSS) and the West Yorkshire Police were able to seize 12,000 copied software and over 150 devices used for modding console systems.

The criminals were found selling illegal copies of games on all the major consoles (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and Wii) at the Richard Dunn Sports Centre in Bradford. Further investigation led the anti-piracy teams to a house search in Leeds which uncovered approximately 5,000 counterfeit software, films, and music discs.

The WYTSS estimated the retail value of the seized items amounting to more than £100,000. Considering the equivalent value of the original products to be over £1 million, this resulted in a major victory for the video gaming industry.

Michael Rawlinson, managing director of ELSPA, thanked the efforts of the people who uncovered the operation. NPT Sergeant Julie Deacon of the West Yorkshire Police also invited everyone to contact the local NPT or Consumer Direct of any illegal activities involving any counterfeit goods sold in their area.