Iranian Man Arrested in Bradford Mini-Mart Money Laundering Inquiry

A 25-year-old Iranian national was arrested in Bradford on suspicion of money laundering linked to operating mini-markets as fronts for criminal activity. The National Crime Agency, supported by West Yorkshire Police, conducted searches at multiple mini-market locations, seizing several thousand pounds in cash, an imitation firearm, and thousands of suspected counterfeit cigarettes. The suspect is believed to have used the hawala system—an informal, trust-based network that facilitates transferring money abroad without physical cash movement—to launder criminal proceeds. After being questioned, the man was released on bail pending further inquiries. NCA senior manager Phil Pestridge emphasized the importance of targeting money laundering as it is the lifeblood of organized crime, and investigations will continue based on the seized evidence. The coordinated effort highlights ongoing efforts to disrupt illicit financial networks operating under the guise of legitimate businesses in the region.