‘Britain’s FBI’ probes corrupt use of UK shell companies in £13bn laundering scam

The investigation highlighted the ease with which Britain is being used by organised crime syndicates to set up sham businesses with which to make ill-gotten cash look legitimate.

Sources of the money could range from people trafficking to corruption and large-scale tax avoidance.

NCA officers have just returned from Moldova, where they have been working with police there on the complex investigation.

Moldova is taking the lead on the so-called “money laundrette” because the hub of the alleged activity took place there through carefully staged court cases tried by Moldovan judges.