Police told to crack down on high street crime

Police forces in Essex and Kent are to receive a share of £20m funding aimed at tackling organised crime on high streets.

The Home Office said it would lead to rogue barber shops, vape stores, mini-marts and sweet shops linked to gangs being raided and shut down.

A new joint unit involving both police forces is expected to be set up, bringing together officers, government departments and local authorities to bust crime.

Security Minister Dan Jarvis said: "Criminal groups are using seemingly legitimate businesses across Kent and Essex as fronts for serious organised crime, money laundering and illegal working."

The Home Office said the extra money would fund stronger enforcement against crime.

"We are backing Kent Police and Essex Police with new funding, better intelligence and more officers to target these criminal enterprises," Jarvis said.

He pledged to "restore confidence on our high street".

According to the National Crime Agency, at least £12bn of criminal cash is generated in the UK.

Money is often laundered through high street shops such as vape stores or barber shops to hide profits, while some firms are also connected to the sale of fake goods and illegal drug supply.

The Home Office said thousands of businesses were expected to be raided as part of its new enforcement drive.

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