Campaign launched to tackle gang 'money mules' in Wales
The charity Crimestoppers says cash-only businesses like takeaways and car washes could be laundering profits from serious offences.
Crimestoppers has launched a new campaign across Wales to tackle money laundering.
The charity says criminal gangs are "generating huge sums from serious offences such as drugs supply, human trafficking, modern slavery, counterfeit goods, weapons sales and sexual exploitation".
They argue, that the gangs have to ‘clean’ or launder this ‘dirty money’ before it can be used.
Often this involves cash-only businesses, such as barber shops, nail bars, pubs, takeaways, car washes, taxi companies or haulage firms.
Some pay ‘money mules’ to transfer funds through bank accounts or smuggle cash abroad. Once cleaned, the money fuels further activity.
"Together we can stop organised crime"
Hayley Fry, National Manager for Crimestoppers Wales said:
“Across Wales and the North West, there are businesses open late with few customers, often cash-only, that don’t add up.
"They may be criminal fronts. If you’ve noticed something suspicious or you know about money laundering, speak to us 100% anonymously.
"Together we can stop organised crime from taking root in our communities.”
The campaign highlights signs to look out for, showing how seemingly legitimate businesses or individuals may be involved in laundering criminal profits.
Crimestoppers is now encouraging people who have suspicions or knowledge about money laundering to share what they know completely anonymously.
Crimestoppers signs to spot:
- Cash-only businesses with few customers but still trading
- Shops open unusual or long hours
- The same staff always present
- Groups gathering where no trade is happening
- Frequent use of high-value banknotes
- Business that regularly changes names or ownership
- Individuals with unexplained wealth or expensive lifestyles