Operation Vulcan close in on a counterfeit warehouse and make arrest for money laundering

In the early hours of the morning, Operation Vulcan executed a warrant at a premises on Bury New Road, Cheetham Hill, at a suspected counterfeit warehouse. Despite over 10 months of relentless activity in the area, those involved in this enterprise appeared to not have seen the news that Operation Vulcan were still pursuing anyone involved in the counterfeit trade and organised crime.

The intelligence suggested that the unit was being used to store counterfeit clothing for onward distribution and online sales. Inside, officers discovered around five tonnes of counterfeit items and seized an estimated £15,000 cash.

A 35-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of money laundering. He remains in police custody for questioning.

Sergeant Dan Cullum, one of Operation Vulcan’s specialist officers said: “Whilst this unit may have been much smaller than some of our previous raids, I hope this is a reminder that we are committed to uncovering any remaining warehouses, shops, or distribution centres who are attempting to operate below the radar.

 “This latest seizure of cash now takes our total to almost £500,000 which really shows what a lucrative operation these businesses are running, all of which goes to fund much more nefarious types of criminality.