Two individuals from Greater Manchester have been apprehended following a series of raids linked to a significant fraud investigation. The Environment Agency, in collaboration with the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit (NWROCU), is examining the misuse of illegal recycling documentation.
Authorities have indicated that this corrupt paperwork is frequently exploited by organized crime groups to facilitate money laundering. Multiple raids occurred across the North West earlier this week.
The arrested men, hailing from Bolton and aged 59 and 42, face allegations of conspiracy to commit fraud and money laundering. In a related incident, a 21-year-old woman was detained in Chorley, Lancashire, on similar charges.
After being interviewed, all suspects have been released pending ongoing inquiries. The Environment Agency stated that evidence collected during the operations will inform any further legal actions.
Lauren Pigg, deputy director for environmental markets and regulation at the Environment Agency, remarked, “We are putting an end to fraudulent activity in the recycling sector, which undermines law-abiding businesses and harms our precious environment. The Environment Agency is now thoroughly examining all the evidence gathered in these raids to further progress the investigation and deliver justice.”
The Packaging Producer Responsibility Regulations mandate that packaging producers, including those making items from materials like plastic, glass, and cardboard, contribute to the costs of recycling and waste management. These businesses are required to show proof of financial contribution by acquiring credits, known as Packaging Export Recovery Notes, from waste processors or exporters.
However, the financial value of these credits makes the sector an attractive target for criminal elements seeking to engage in substantial fraud and money laundering. In response, the Environment Agency established a new economic crime unit last year.
Detective Chief Inspector Chris Maddocks from NWROCU’s economic crime team stated, “This operation highlights the importance of strong collaboration between law enforcement and regulatory partners. We remain committed to tackling fraud in all its forms and to supporting partner organisations such as the Environment Agency in holding those responsible to account. We will continue to ensure that organised criminal activity in this space is identified and disrupted at every level.”
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the investigation to contact the Environment Agency’s 24-hour hotline at 0800 807 060, or to report anonymously to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
