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Fake Labubu dolls and hundreds of illegal vapes were seized during a raid in Wrexham yesterday (Monday). It followed a multi-agency operation on Chester Street, involving the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit [NWROCU] and Trading Standards. A spokesperson said officers from the unit's Proactive Economic Crime Team, supported by Trading Standards and detection dogs, carried out a targeted operation at a premises on the street. They said: "The enforcement activity, which took place at a Wrexham off licence, resulted in the seizure of 864 illegal vapes and 43 counterfeit Labubu dolls. "The items were confiscated by Trading Standards following a search of the premises. "Operation Machinize is an ongoing NCA-coordinated operation to tackle money laundering and criminal use of cash-intensive high street businesses which are often used by organised crime groups to launder money and facilitate wider offending. "These businesses are frequently linked to money laundering, organised immigration crime (OIC), tax evasion, drug trafficking, and the distribution of counterfeit goods. "Monday’s activity in Wrexham forms part of a wider national effort to dismantle these organised crime networks and safeguard vulnerable individuals." Detective Inspector Tim Farley from the NWROCU's Economic Crime Unit said: "This seizure is another example of the NWROCU’s commitment to tackling the criminal abuse of legitimate business fronts. "Disrupting the flow of illicit goods and targeting the financial infrastructure behind organised crime remains a priority for our teams. "I would like to thank all partners involved for their continued support and collaboration." Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox Find crime figures for your area
