Crimestoppers launch campaign in South West to tackle 'dirty money'

Independent charity, Crimetsoppers, is launching a campaign across the South West to disrupt money laundering and prevent criminals profit from organised crime.

Vast amounts of money is made every year from drug trafficking, human exploitation and selling counterfeit goods. To then spend or invest profits, criminals have to 'clean' their money with legitimate businesses or professionals; often unknowingly.

Cash-heavy businesses are often used as fronts. Some of those include fast-food outlets, taxi firms, nail washes or car washes.

The community's anonymous information is vital for disrupting criminal networks. Some warning signs include:

• Businesses dealing mainly in cash or holding unusually large cash amounts

• Frequent use of foreign currency or high denomination notes

• Businesses regularly changing name, ownership or type

• Individuals displaying unexplained wealth with no clear source of income

• Regular travel without a legitimate purpose

• Loan shark activity

• Purchase of expensive items without visible means

• Frequent movement of large sums through multiple accounts – sometimes using others’ accounts

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”

“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 – online or by phone. Only you will ever know you’ve contacted us”, she added.

Help make South West England safer for everyone. To report crime with complete anonymity:

Visit www.crimestoppers-uk.org and fill out our secure, anonymous online form or call our UK Contact Centre open 24/7: 0800 555 111

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.