Crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers has launched a new campaign in Wales to raise awareness about money laundering.

Criminals make big profits from illegal activities and need to 'clean' their money through businesses like hair salons, pubs, and taxi companies.

The campaign aims to encourage people to report any suspicious activities they see, to help stop organised crime in their communities.

Hayley Fry, National Manager for Crimestoppers Wales added: “Across Wales there are businesses open late with few customers, often cash-only, that don’t add up. They may be criminal fronts. If you’ve noticed something suspicious or you know about money laundering, speak to us 100% anonymously. Together we can stop organised crime from taking root in our communities.”

 Every year, vast sums are generated by serious and organised crime. Criminals rely on money laundering to disguise this ‘dirty money’ and to fund lavish lifestyles, while their activities continue to cause real harm to communities. 

The public campaign highlights warning signs to look out for, showing how seemingly legitimate businesses or individuals may be involved in laundering criminal profits.

Crimestoppers is encouraging people who have suspicions or knowledge about money laundering to share what they know completely anonymously, ensuring that action can be taken.

Signs to spot:

Cash-only businesses with few customers but still trading
Shops open unusual or long hours
The same staff always present
Groups gathering where no trade is happening
Frequent use of high-value banknotes
Business that regularly changes names or ownership
Individuals with unexplained wealth or expensive lifestyles

Your information could help save lives, prevent criminals cashing in, and make communities across Wales safer.

Please note: No-one will ever know you contacted Crimestoppers. With Fearless.org and Crimestoppers-uk.org, computer IP addresses are never traced.

Telephone calls to the independent charity’s UK Contact Centre, there is no caller line display and no 1471 facility. You will stay 100% anonymous.