Three people have been arrested as part of an investigation into the large-scale theft of clothing donated to charity, following a police raid at an industrial unit in Purfleet earlier this month.
The arrests stem from a warrant executed by Harlow Local Policing Team (LPT) on Friday, 4 April, with assistance from teams across Essex Police, including the Serious Crime Directorate, Drone Team, Operational Support Group, and Special Constabulary.
The raid targeted a unit on London Road, where officers discovered a vast operation involving industrial equipment, including washing machines, conveyor belts, industrial scales, cages, and a forklift truck.
A significant quantity of cash, estimated at £38,000, was also recovered during the search.
Inside the building and a large adjoining marquee, officers found hundreds of sacks stuffed with clothes, shoes, toys, and prams—many believed to have been stolen from charity donation bins. In some areas, the sacks were stacked to the ceiling, up to four layers deep.
Arrests Made
A 48-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of money laundering, while two men, aged 38 and 31, were arrested on suspicion of going equipped to steal.
All three individuals have since been bailed until 28 June, as the investigation continues.
Police Statement
PC Jacob George, from Harlow LPT, described the crime as a “complex theft” and emphasised the public’s expectation that charitable donations reach those in need.
“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,” said PC George.
He added that initial enquiries suggest some of the items recovered were intended to be sold abroad, undermining the charitable purpose behind the donations.
Public Encouraged to Stay Vigilant
Essex Police are urging the public to continue donating to charities, but to report any suspicious activity around donation bins or collection points.
“We continue to investigate,” added PC George. “We want to ensure these crimes don’t go unnoticed and that those responsible are held to account.”
Anyone with information relating to this investigation is encouraged to contact Essex Police via 101, or report anonymously via Crimestoppers.
