Jersey police help expose money laundering network

An investigation into money laundering activities in Jersey has led to the disruption of a "multi-billion Russian money laundering network"

An investigation into money laundering activities in Jersey has led to the disruption of a "multi-billion Russian money laundering network", Jersey police have said.

States of Jersey Police (SOJP) worked with the National Crime Agency (NCA) on an investigation in October 2021 which resulted in 84 arrests.

The force found Muhiddin Umurzokov, Anvarjon Eshonkulov and Batsukh Bataa were attempting to launder about £60,000 in used Jersey bank notes on the island.

The trio pleaded guilty to 22 charges of money laundering and admitting to working for a UK based organised crime group.

'Strongest deterrent'

In 2022, they were sentenced by the Royal Court of Jersey for a combined total of 10 years' imprisonment.

Chief Officer Robin Smith said the operation demonstrated the "effectiveness of our collaborative efforts with national agencies".

He said: "The number of charges and the combined sentences should act as the strongest deterrent to would be criminal networks seeking to launder money in our island.

"It also illustrates how SOJP works closely with our highly professional colleagues at the NCA – they are an agency to be reckoned with.”

Officer in the case, Faith Shalamon, said the response showed "the strong stance that Jersey takes against money laundering"

The NCA have called the findings "one of their biggest uncoverings of organised crime", according to police, with one bank account moving £4.31m during 2021/2022.

Evidence from seized mobile phones, documentation, receipts and lists revealed their possible involvement in sub-letting UK properties paid for in cash, human and drug trafficking or prostitution.

Faith Shalamon, officer in the case, said: “We are grateful for the vigilance of the local businesses and the community, whose cooperation was instrumental in achieving this outcome.

"The multi-agency response shows the strong stance that Jersey takes against money laundering.”