Authorities in Bristol have confiscated over 130 bags of counterfeit designer goods as part of a crackdown on illegal activities in the South West. Raids on barbershops across the region have resulted in multiple arrests. In Gloucestershire, five individuals were apprehended during operations targeting 11 different locations. The initiative forms part of Operation Machinize, a three-week campaign against money laundering led by the National Crime Agency (NCA). Detective Sergeant Adrian Bray emphasized the importance of such operations in deterring criminal activity on high streets. During the enforcement actions, various offenses were uncovered, leading to arrests for fraud, immigration violations, drug-related crimes, and illicit trading practices. The South West Regional Organised Crime Unit (SWROCU) highlighted the role of cash-intensive businesses like barbershops in facilitating money laundering schemes and exploiting vulnerable individuals for criminal purposes. Similar operations were conducted in other areas, including Bournemouth, Swindon, and Poole. Follow-up investigations are ongoing as authorities continue to combat organized crime in the region.
