THREE men from Oxfordshire have been arrested following a series of money-laundering raids by police.

Officers from the Thames Valley Police Economic Crime Unit raided four addresses in Oxford today as part of a wider operation across the region.

Cash, jewellery and vehicles were seized.

The day of action saw a total of nine raids carried out across Oxford, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Nottinghamshire.

A 41-year-old man, a 34-year-old man and a 27-year-old man, all from Oxfordshire, as well as a 49-year-old man from Berkshire were arrested in connection with money laundering offences and are now in custody.

A further two women and two men are also awaiting interview in connection with the warrants.

The Oxford raids saw police target Marshall Road in Cowley, Jack Straw’s Lane and Stainfield Road in Headington and Banbury Road.

Police also raided properties in Yarnton, Milton Keynes, High Wycombe and Nottinghamshire.

Detective Inspector Duncan Wynn, of the Thames Valley Police Economic Crime Unit, who led the operation, said: “The offences which took place at these properties are not linked, but were targeted as part of a day of action in order to combat economic crime across the Thames Valley.

“We are investigating money laundering offences, and after gathering intelligence, we carried out this series of warrants.

“Money laundering is a key element of serious and organised crime, much of which has devastating consequences for victims and communities across the Thames Valley. Those who commit these offences, and those who are affected by them, come from all walks of life.

“Many people think of money laundering as being a victimless crime, but I want to highlight that this is not the case and the seriousness of these offences.

“Those who carry out this sort of offence are often responsible for ensuring that there is a financial reward involved in crime and are contributing to the misery caused to many by organised crime.

“We will not tolerate money laundering or other economic crimes and will continue to target and disrupt those who carry out these sorts of offences.

“If you are aware of any economic crime, or would like to report any offence, please call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.”