Criminal organizations in the UK are reportedly acquiring haulage companies to facilitate large-scale theft of goods. An investigation revealed that one such company was purchased using the identification of a deceased individual. This acquisition enabled the gang to operate as a legitimate hauler, leading to the loss of a significant shipment.
One transport firm in the Midlands fell victim to this scheme when it hired a subcontractor that had been misleadingly obtained. A manufacturer loaded a lorry with goods worth £75,000, which subsequently vanished, prompting an investigation by local authorities. This incident is part of a broader increase in freight crime, which saw losses rise from £68 million to £111 million in the past year.
Reportedly, drivers are facing increasing risks, often discovering damage to their vehicles caused by attempts to access their cargo. Commonly targeted items include high-value goods such as electronics and designer clothing. The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) noted that freight crimes are becoming more organized and sophisticated, necessitating enhanced cooperation with the industry.
Authorities attribute this trend to criminals using fraudulent haulage firms, including a series of companies purchased by an individual who died before the acquisitions. The new owners utilized the dead man’s identity to register these businesses and execute fraudulent activities. The investigation uncovered a network of companies linked to this individual, as well as a notable absence of accountability from the former owners who were deceived during the sales process.
The local MP and law enforcement officials acknowledge the need for a coordinated response to better combat these criminal tactics. Meanwhile, business owners voiced concerns about the repercussions of such crimes, underscoring the significant strain it places on smaller operators in the haulage sector.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cj41jd0krkro?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss