Police conduct coordinated raids to crack down on fraud and money laundering in the South East of England

Police have carried out a series of warrants across the south as part of a crackdown on fraud and money laundering in the South East of England. The South East Regional Organised Crime Unit (SEROCU) have revealed that they have executed six warrants and attempted two arrests at properties and locations in Aylesbury, Southampton, Hastings, Woking, Milton Keynes and Watford.

These coordinated efforts involved partner agencies and resulted in a total of seven arrests, one person being interviewed voluntarily, and 12 cease and desist orders being issued. Investigators seized a variety of items relating to fraud and money laundering, including bank material and electronic devices.

The crackdown is part of a month long initiative in February aimed at combating fraudulent online activity and money laundering. The warrants were specifically related to investigations into individuals suspected of using online crypto services to launder funds obtained fraudulently.

Detective Inspector Tom Bradshaw, who leads SEROCU’s Proactive Economic Crime team, condemned the impact of these crimes and declared that his team would not tolerate such behaviour. He emphasised that the activity undertaken throughout February demonstrates the unit’s commitment to tackling these crimes and serves as a warning to those who engage in them.

Bradshaw highlighted the vital role played by “money mules” in enabling fraud and other criminal activity. These individuals allow their bank accounts to be used to transfer criminal money, thereby making it difficult for banks and police to track down the perpetrators. Bradshaw stressed that the SEROCU team would also be providing support and advice to individuals at risk of being coerced into money laundering.

SEROCU’s Proactive Economic Crime team plans to offer support and advice to individuals who may be at risk of being coerced into becoming a “money mule.” Those who want to find out more about how to protect themselves can visit www.moneymules.co.uk.

The crackdown on fraud and money laundering in the South East of England is ongoing, and law enforcement agencies are continuing to investigate individuals suspected of involvement in these crimes.