New High Street crime unit to target gangs fronting shops after BBC investigation
Summary
The UK government has launched a new £30 million crime unit to tackle gangs using shops on High Streets to carry out illegal activities. This follows a BBC investigation that exposed organized crime in shops selling illegal cigarettes, vapes, and other illegal goods. The unit will operate for three years, led by the National Crime Agency, with extra police officers and funding for trading standards.Key Facts
- A new £30 million High Street organised crime unit will run for three years, led by the National Crime Agency (NCA).
- The unit targets gangs using shops to sell illegal tobacco, vapes, and run other crimes like money laundering and illegal immigration.
- The government will add 75 new police officers in regions including Greater Manchester, West Midlands, Essex, and Kent.
- £20 million will go to the NCA, £6 million to trading standards, and £3.75 million shared among immigration enforcement, HMRC, and the unit's running costs.
- The NCA estimates at least £1 billion of criminal money is laundered through High Street shops each year.
- The BBC's year-long investigation uncovered secret tunnels, asylum seekers buying and selling shops illegally, and organised crime gangs controlling many stores.
- The Home Secretary has vowed to shut down illegal shops, seize criminal cash, and put those responsible in jail.
- The government plans to review and strengthen law enforcement powers and consider longer closure orders to keep criminal businesses shut down.
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