Man arrested in joint operation to target fraud and money laundering

Today (Tuesday 18 March), officers from the NWROCU’s Economic Crime Unit executed a warrant and conducted business visits across Cumbria. The operation targeted money laundering, human trafficking, drug offences, and immigration crime in response to concerns raised about an increase in barber shops.

The activity was supported by Cumbria Police, Immigration Compliance and Enforcement, and Trading Standards.

Barber shops in Carlisle and Penrith were amongst the business premises visited throughout the day.

Premises in Botchergate, Carlisle were visited by police and immigration officers, but no further action was taken.  

A 34-year-old man from Iran was arrested on suspicion of immigration offences at a premises in Penrith. The owner of the premises will receive a fine of up to £50,000.

The arrested individual has been taken to a local police station for questioning.