Arrests and fake goods seized in barbershop raids

Fake goods have been seized and a number of arrests made in barbershop raids across the south west of England.

In Gloucestershire, five people were arrested after officers from different agencies targeted 11 premises. More than 130 bags of fake designer goods were seized in Bristol.

The action is part of a three-week nationwide money laundering campaign by the National Crime Agency (NCA), called Operation Machinize.

"Operations like this hopefully send a very clear message that our high streets are not a place to hide in plain sight," said Det Sgt Adrian Bray from the South West Regional Organised Crime Unit (SWROCU).

During the operation, a man, aged 40, was arrested on suspicion of fraud after officers raided two barbershops on Barton Street, Gloucester. He has been released on bail under investigation.

Another man was arrested for immigration offences at premises where officers from Trading Standards seized illegal cigarettes and vapes.

A 24-year-old man, from Gloucester, was also arrested on suspicion of burglary and possession of methamphetamine. He has since been charged with theft.

Two men, aged 33 and 18, from Gloucester, were arrested on suspicion of supplying cocaine and cannabis.

The 18-year-old has since been charged with possession with intent to supply, while the 33-year-old was released under investigation.

The SWROCU said it had visited 16 premises in total across the south west of England.

In Bournemouth, an employee was found to be working illegally at one premises and vapes were being sold illegally at another.

Premises were also visited in Swindon, Poole, Teignmouth, Saltash, Barnstaple and Braunton, they said.

"Barbershops and other cash-intensive businesses like vape shops, nail bars, American-themed sweet shops and car washes are often used by criminals to launder the proceeds of their crimes," Det Sgt Bray said.

"Their aim is to mix legitimate funds and criminal profits to hinder investigations into their criminality.

"We know they are also adept at exploiting vulnerable people to work in their businesses."

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