A significant breakthrough in the fight against financial crime has been reported in the UK, where Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have seized gold and jewellery valued at approximately £2 million (about 700 million PKR) at Manchester Airport. This haul is being described by the police as the largest gold seizure of its kind by the Manchester force, leading to the arrest of two individuals on suspicion of money laundering.
Details indicate that on October 30, police intercepted a suspicious vehicle at Manchester Airport. A search of the vehicle yielded 7 gold bars valued at approximately £700,000. This initial recovery prompted a widespread investigation.
Arrests Upon UK Return and Further Recoveries
Following initial inquiries, two male suspects, aged 49 and 45, were identified. Both individuals were apprehended at the airport upon their return to the UK on Monday night. Police have confirmed that the suspects remain in custody while the investigation into money laundering continues.
In subsequent searches, police recovered an additional £100,000 worth of gold and jewellery. Furthermore, a raid on a residential property in Bradford, West Yorkshire, resulted in the seizure of £60,000 in gold biscuits, a watch valued at £30,000, and a significant amount of cash.
Intensified Money Laundering Investigation
Detective Inspector Sarah Langley, an officer from the Economic Crime Unit of Greater Manchester Police, stated that “Following initial enquiries, we have launched a money laundering investigation and are reviewing all available intelligence.”
She acknowledged that a “large recovery of this nature will naturally generate attention.” Langley added that expert officers are working to determine the reasons behind the large-scale, illegal importation of the gold and jewellery into the country. Police have issued a public appeal for anyone with information related to the incident to come forward and assist the investigation.
