Two arrested in Penzance linked to multi-million pound waste fraud
Arrests made in connection to waste packaging fraud and money laundering
Two individuals in Penzance have been apprehended in connection to waste packaging fraud and money laundering, the Environment Agency say.
The dawn raids on Monday involved officers from the Environment Agency and Devon and Cornwall Police arresting a man and a woman, both aged 47, at separate locations in the town.
The arrests concern alleged fraudulent activities under the Packaging Producer Responsibility regime.
The system, overseen by the Environment Agency, allows reprocessors to sell credits for packaging waste they recycle.
Producers must purchase these credits to contribute towards recycling costs.
In this alleged fraud, more than £6 million in credits were sold for packaging claimed to be reprocessed, but investigators suspect the processing figures were inflated, suggesting a significant portion of the recycling never occurred.
Money made from the fraud is also suspected to have been laundered.
The suspects, following questioning, have been released pending further investigation, with evidence gathered during the arrests aiding future actions.
Environment Agency's Stance
Emma Viner, Enforcement and Investigations Manager at the Environment Agency's National Environmental Crime Unit said:
"These arrests mark another important step in our war against waste criminals.
"Whether it’s defrauding the waste sector or dumping rubbish in our towns and cities, the Environment Agency is working tirelessly to catch those responsible. We will follow the money and act against those profiting from waste crime.
"Our officers are now thoroughly examining all the evidence gathered to further progress this investigation and deliver justice."
Government Response
Circular Economy Minister Mary Creagh emphasized the significance of the case:
"This shocking case of waste packaging fraud has harmed legitimate businesses and robbed communities of funding for their recycling services.
"I welcome these arrests by the Environment Agency – which send a clear message that no stone will be left unturned in our war on waste crime.
"This government is tackling waste cowboys by boosting funds to tackle waste crime and introducing tougher checks and penalties for those who break the law."
The Packaging Producer Responsibility Regulations aim to ensure waste producers cover recycling disposal costs, with legitimate businesses required to show financial contributions via credit purchases.
However, these credits have been exploited by criminal entities, affecting legitimate businesses and recycling infrastructure investments.
The Environment Agency's Economic Crime Unit aims to combat money laundering and conduct financial investigations within the sector.
Recent successes in tackling waste crime include 18 arrests over the last two months, with cases involving illegal dumping and tipping across various locations.
Anyone who may have pertinent information is encouraged to contact the Environment Agency on 0800 807060 or report anonymously via Crimestoppers at 0800 555111 or through their website.