Operation Machinize NCA-coordinated project to tackle money laundering and criminal use of cash-intensive high street businesses. Security Minister Dan Jarvis watched some of the raids. (Image: Sonya Duncan)

One of the arrests was for a modern slavery offence as convenience stores, vape shops, nail bars and a masseuse were all visited during a special multi-agency operation in Lowestoft.

Operation Machinize NCA-coordinated project to tackle money laundering and criminal use of cash-intensive high street businesses. Security Minister Dan Jarvis watched some of the raids. (Image: Sonya Duncan)

The day of action took place as part of a national crackdown led by Suffolk Constabulary and the National Crime Agency (NCA) targeting cash-intensive businesses suspected of links to criminal activity.

Operation Machinize NCA-coordinated project to tackle money laundering and criminal use of cash-intensive high street businesses. Security Minister Dan Jarvis watched some of the raids. (Image: Sonya Duncan)

Teams of uniformed and plain clothed officers were joined on the day by Security Minister Dan Jarvis, alongside the NCA, a local immigration team, Suffolk Trading Standards, and a detection dog.

A total of 10 businesses were visited as part of Operation Machinize, an NCA-co-ordinated project targeting the exploitation and organised crime often hidden within the so-called "grey economy."

Operation Machinize NCA-coordinated project to tackle money laundering and criminal use of cash-intensive high street businesses. Security Minister Dan Jarvis watched some of the raids. (Image: Sonya Duncan)

The operation focused on businesses suspected of illegal employment, the sale of illicit goods, money laundering and modern slavery.

Sgt Laura Deal conducts a search during Operation Machinize in Lowestoft. (Image: Sonya Duncan)

At one store in Lowestoft, a tobacco detection dog from Wagtail UK Limited helped uncover a significant stash of illegal cigarettes and........

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