GMP’s Economic Crime Unit have forfeited over £1.5 million this tax year from criminal’s pockets following 216 successful court forfeitures.
The money comes from a variety of criminal disruption.
In Oldham, a 36-year-old man was stopped during a regular traffic patrol and after a search of the vehicle there was a large quantity of suspected counterfeit cigarettes.
Following further searches over £42,000 was recovered and then forfeited by the Asset Detention and Recovery Unit this year.
October 2023, a vehicle was stopped on the motorway as it crossed over to Greater Manchester Police’s borders, a vehicle was stopped as part of Operation Falcon. When the vehicle was searched there was cash bundles concealed in drawers under the front driver and passenger seats, the two occupants of the car attempted to run from officers but were caught and arrested. £124,000 was seized and has been successfully forfeited.
Detective Inspector Sarah Langley, of GMP’s Economic Crime Unit, said: “This is just two examples of forfeitures made daily by the team and as an Economic Crime Unit, we are continuing to work diligently to prevent money that is made from crime from being used to further criminality.
“In line with our public promises, we are seizing more assets from criminals and using that money to either further asset recovery or on the community through ARIS.
“It is fitting that the money we seize from proceeds of crime is being used to help fight, prevent and reduce crime; keep people safe; and care for victims which ultimately makes Greater Manchester a better place to live, work and visit.
“We will keep our focus on dismantling organised crime and will continue to target their finances, seizing cash and assets from those who wish to harm our communities.
