Hundreds of UK Barbershops Raided in Money Laundering Crackdown

A three-week crackdown named Operation Machinize has targeted hundreds of cash-intensive businesses, including barbershops, nail salons, and vape shops, in an effort to combat money laundering and modern slavery. The National Crime Agency (NCA) reported that police raided 265 premises across England and Wales, resulting in 35 arrests and placing 97 individuals suspected of being victims of modern slavery under police protection. The operation led to the freezing of over £1 million in bank accounts and the seizure of more than £40,000 in cash, alongside significant quantities of illegal tobacco and vapes. Rachael Herbert, NCA's deputy director, emphasized that these businesses are often used by criminal gangs to launder money and facilitate various illegal activities, including drug trafficking and human trafficking. Security minister Dan Jarvis highlighted the complexity of the criminality faced by communities, asserting the need for decisive action. The NCA estimates that approximately £12 billion in criminal cash is generated annually in the UK.