A COMMERCIAL premises in Purfleet was raided by police who have uncovered a charity theft operation.

Officers investigating large-scale theft of clothes donated to charity, have arrested three people.

A statement from Essex Police says: "As part of an investigation into a large-scale theft of clothes donated to charity in January, officers from Harlow Local Policing Team (LPT) have arrested three people.

"The arrests were the direct result of a warrant at an industrial unit in Purfleet on Friday, 4 April in which officers from Harlow LPT's D team were supported by officers from across the force, including colleagues from the Serious Crime Directorate, the Drone Team, Operational Support Group and volunteer officers from the Special Constabulary.

"During a search of the premises at the London Road industrial unit, officers located a substantial amount of cash estimated to be £38,000, washing machines, industrial scales, conveyor belts, cages and a forklift. 

"Within a building and a marquee, sacks containing clothes were stacked to the ceiling and were four or more deep in places. The clothes, shoes, toys and prams found were believed to have been stolen from charity donation bins."

PC Jacob George added: "This type of theft is complex.

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"Our communities expect that when they make a donation, it reaches the people it was intended for, that it will be used for good and will be given to some of the most deserving people in society."

The statement continued: "On the day, a 48-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of money laundering.

"Two men – aged 38 and 31 – were arrested on suspicion of going equipped to steal.

"All three have been bailed until 28 June while we continue our enquiries.

"We continue to investigate but we believe that some of the sacks were destined to be sold abroad."

"We would encourage people to continue to donate clothes and items of need to charities, but please report anything suspicious."