PCC urges public to report signs of organised crime in their communities

Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson is urging residents across Wiltshire and Swindon to report information that could help tackle organised crime and protect vulnerable people from exploitation.

While often hidden from view, organised criminal networks rely on exploitation, criminal finances, rogue businesses and online activity to operate within communities.

Residents are being encouraged to be aware of the warning signs, which can take many forms, including properties with a constant flow of visitors at all hours, people appearing frightened or controlled by others, workers who seem unable to speak for themselves, or businesses that appear to operate with little visible trade. 

Other indicators may include individuals suddenly living beyond their means, acquiring expensive items with no obvious source of income, or asking others to move money on their behalf.

Parents and carers should also be aware of signs of exploitation, such as young people becoming secretive, carrying multiple mobile phones or making unexplained journeys.

Criminal networks are also increasingly using online platforms to recruit and exploit people, making suspicious job adverts, offers that seem too good to be true, or requests from online contacts to receive parcels, store items, or facilitate accommodation, employment or transport arrangements important warning signs to report.

Mr Wilkinson said: "Behind organised crime are vulnerable people being exploited for profit, while criminal networks show little regard for the harm they cause to individuals, families and communities.

"Police cannot tackle this issue alone. Some of the most valuable intelligence comes from members of the public who notice something unusual and report it.

"Criminal groups rarely operate in isolation. They rely on networks, relationships and opportunities within our communities, which is why information from the public is so important. 

"What may seem like a small concern on its own could form part of a much wider intelligence picture, helping police identify patterns, safeguard victims and disrupt organised criminal activity before more people come to harm."

Detective Chief Inspector Megan Elkins said: “Serious and organised criminals rely on secrecy, which is why information from our communities is so important.

“Whether you've noticed suspicious visitors to a property, unusual financial activity, concerns about a local business, or signs that someone is being exploited, we want to hear from you.

“No single report tells the whole story, but together they can help us build a clearer picture and take action against those causing harm. If you see the signs, please let us know.”