Operation Henhouse nets £7.5m, 422 arrests nationwide

During February, Operation Henhouse, a national fraud intensification campaign led by the National Economic Crime Centre, saw significant law enforcement activity across various regions in the UK. Essex Police's Serious Economic Crime Unit recovered and froze nearly £892,000, made 18 arrests, and charged individuals connected to various fraud schemes including romance fraud and NHS invoice scams. Meanwhile, West Mercia Police conducted 30 warrants, seizing over £500,000 from suspected money laundering operations, arresting six individuals for immigration offences, and executing multiple Account Freezing Orders. The campaign highlighted the increasing complexity of fraud, with organized crime groups often using legitimate businesses as fronts for illicit activities. Authorities emphasized the importance of public cooperation in reporting suspected fraudulent activities to aid ongoing efforts in combatting fraud. This collective action across police departments underscores a united front against financial crime in the UK.