00:01A new report warns organised crime groups are increasingly using high street shops as
00:06a front for illegal activity, including in part of Liverpool. The Chartered Trade and
00:10Standards Institute says up to half of convenience stores and vape retailers in certain areas
00:16may have links to criminal networks.
00:19Surveys suggest most officers have seen a rise in suspicious cash in intensive businesses
00:24since 2020.
00:25The report also highlights threats and intimidation faced by enforcement staff.
00:31Industry groups say rogue traders harm legitimate businesses and communities while officials
00:36are calling for more funding and stronger powers to tackle what is described as a growing national
00:42problem.
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