‘Dodgy’ shops handling criminal cash targeted by new unit
A new specialist unit will target retail outlets suspected of laundering criminal money in the UK. The National Crime Agency estimates that £1 billion is laundered annually through high street businesses, including candy stores and vape shops. The initiative aims to combat organized crime and improve the integrity of local economies.
- ▪Up to a third of US candy stores in certain areas are suspected fronts for criminal activity.
- ▪The National Crime Agency will coordinate investigations into businesses linked to money laundering and tax evasion.
- ▪The government is allocating £20 million to establish a new High Street Organised Crime Unit.
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Up to a third of US candy stores in some areas are suspected of being a front for criminal activity. Photograph: Eleventh Hour Photography/AlamyView image in fullscreenUp to a third of US candy stores in some areas are suspected of being a front for criminal activity. Photograph: Eleventh Hour Photography/AlamyOrganised crime‘Dodgy’ shops handling criminal cash targeted by new unitEstimates suggest £1bn a year is laundered through high street businesses, with some connected to tax evasion, drugs and counterfeit goodsRajeev Syal Home affairs editorMon 18 May 2026 17.30 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on Google“Dodgy” retail outlets such as vape stores, barbers, mini-marts and sweet shops suspected of being used to launder £1bn of criminal money will be targeted by a new specialist unit, the…
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