From toy shelf to evidence bags:Labubu dolls amongst illicit goods seized during multi-agency operation in Wrexham

Yesterday (Monday 27 October), Officers from the NWROCU’s Proactive Economic Crime Team, supported by Trading Standards and detection dogs, carried out a targeted operation at a premises on Chester Street, Wrexham, as part of Operation Machinize.

The enforcement activity, which took place at a Wrexham off licence, resulted in the seizure of 864 illegal vapes and 43 counterfeit Labubu dolls. The items were confiscated by Trading Standards following a search of the premises.

Operation Machinize is an ongoing NCA-coordinated operation to tackle money laundering and criminal use of cash-intensive high street businesses which are often used by organised crime groups to launder money and facilitate wider offending. These businesses are frequently linked to money laundering, organised immigration crime (OIC), tax evasion, drug trafficking, and the distribution of counterfeit goods.

Monday’s activity in Wrexham forms part of a wider national effort to dismantle these organised crime networks and safeguard vulnerable individuals.

Detectice Inspector Tim Farley from the NWROCU's Economic Crime Unit said: 

"This seizure is another example of the NWROCU’s commitment to tackling the criminal abuse of legitimate business fronts.

"Disrupting the flow of illicit goods and targeting the financial infrastructure behind organised crime remains a priority for our teams. 

"I would like to thank all partners involved for their continued support and collaboration."