Sussex Police raid 76 premises in money laundering and illegal goods investigation

Sussex Police have arrested 18 people and seized large quantities of illicit cigarettes, tobacco and illegal vapes during a month-long operation targeting cash-intensive businesses across the county. The action formed part of Operation Machinize, a National Crime Agency (NCA)-coordinated initiative aimed at tackling illegal goods, money laundering and exploitation linked to businesses such as car […]

Sussex Police have arrested 18 people and seized large quantities of illicit cigarettes, tobacco and illegal vapes during a month-long operation targeting cash-intensive businesses across the county.

The action formed part of Operation Machinize, a National Crime Agency (NCA)-coordinated initiative aimed at tackling illegal goods, money laundering and exploitation linked to businesses such as car washes, barber shops and convenience stores.

Throughout October, Sussex Police worked with Trading Standards, Immigration Enforcement, the DWP, Home Office investigators and local authorities to carry out warrants and visits at 76 premises across Sussex.

Over £30,000 seized and 17 arrested in West Sussex raids

Across West Sussex, officers executed multiple warrants at 35 retail premises alongside Trading Standards and Immigration Enforcement.
A further 18 residential addresses were searched under police powers.

The operation led to the seizure of over £30,000 in cash, tens of thousands of cigarettes, multiple kilos of tobacco and the arrest of 17 people.
Test purchases were also carried out at shops selling age-restricted products, with several failing the checks. Trading Standards will follow up.

Safeguarding workers a key priority

Police say the aim of Operation Machinize was not only to remove illegal goods, but also to gather intelligence and identify vulnerable workers who may be at risk of exploitation.

In Brighton and Hove, officers carried out multiple “discovery visits” at cash-intensive businesses to assess safeguarding concerns.

In East Sussex, police joined with Immigration Compliance Enforcement, the DWP, Home Office financial investigators and Wealden District Council to conduct safeguarding checks at 19 premises, including nail bars, car washes and barber shops.

These visits were carried out on a consent-only basis with the cooperation of businesses.

As a result, a 37-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of employing a person believed to be disqualified from employment due to immigration status. He has been bailed while enquiries continue.

Partner agencies also uncovered several examples of suspected fraudulent business practices which are now under joint investigation.

“We will relentlessly pursue criminals”

Detective Chief Inspector Antony Leadbeatter said the operation demonstrates the value of coordinated enforcement:

“Targeting money laundering and illicit goods in cash-intensive businesses allows officers to build a wider scope of intelligence.

These premises can be linked to a variety of other offences and organised crime groups.

Working in partnership with other agencies strengthens this intelligence and ensures those engaging in criminal or civil wrongdoing are held accountable.”

He added that Operation Machinize also strengthened safeguarding efforts:

“Sussex Police proactively tackles money laundering and protects vulnerable people every day.

Operations like Machinize intensify this focus, crack down on criminality, and build intelligence that supports future work.

We will continue to relentlessly pursue criminals, protect vulnerable people and keep our communities safe.”