Police to gain new powers in closing shops linked to organised crime

Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleOfficials are also urgently reviewing the inclusion of vape shops, barbers and car washes on the skilled-worker sponsorship list amid concerns about abuse of the visa system (PA)Police are set to gain expanded powers to close businesses linked to organised crime, such as vape shops, barbers, and nail salons, for up to a year.Expected later this year, new legislation will double the current six-month maximum closure period. These extended orders aim to give investigators more time to gather evidence and pursue prosecutions. Separately, officials are reviewing the inclusion of vape shops, barbers, and car washes on the skilled-worker sponsorship list due to concerns about potential visa system abuse. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said: “High streets across the country have been hijacked by criminal gangs operating in plain sight – running vape stores, dodgy barbers, and nail salons to launder their dirty money.”Trading Standards has revealed that organised crime groups are suspected of operating through up to half of convenience stores and vape retailers in some UK areas.In fullNew powers to shut down ‘dodgy’ vape shops and barbers for a yearThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

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