Report by Duncan Williams for News Advertiser newspapers
A new campaign has been launched across the South West to tackle money laundering and stop criminals from profiting from serious and organised crime.
Crimestoppers, the independent charity, is urging people to report suspicious activity anonymously as part of its drive to disrupt the flow of “dirty money” through local communities.
Each year, vast sums are generated from drug trafficking, human exploitation, counterfeit goods and other crimes. To spend or invest their profits, criminals must disguise the cash – often by running it through legitimate businesses.
Pubs, fast-food outlets, taxi firms, haulage companies, nail bars and car washes are just some of the cash-heavy businesses that can be exploited. Increasingly, young people are also being targeted, persuaded to use their bank accounts or carry cash abroad in exchange for “easy money”.
Karen MacDonald, South West Regional Manager at Crimestoppers, said, “Criminals promote the myth that reporting crime makes you a ‘grass’. In reality, sharing what you know protects communities from suffering and helps prevent criminals from living off the misery they create.”
MacDonald added, “Many people have suspicions about lavish lifestyles with no employment, or cash-only businesses that seem to thrive despite few customers. If you notice something unusual, please reach out to our charity anonymously – only you will ever know you’ve contacted us.”
Warning signs of money laundering can include:
Businesses dealing mainly in cash or holding unusually large amounts
Frequent use of foreign currency or high-value notes
Sudden or frequent changes in business ownership
Individuals with unexplained wealth or expensive items but no visible income
Loan shark activity
Frequent international travel without clear reason
Money being moved rapidly between multiple accounts
Crimestoppers says community information is vital in breaking down criminal networks and keeping towns and cities safe.
Reports can be made 100% anonymously online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling the charity’s UK Contact Centre, open 24/7, on 0800 555 111. Calls are never traced, recorded or tracked.
( Photos: Unsplash / Crimestoppers 📸 )