Three people have been arrested as part of a police investigation into the suspected theft of duty-free goods at Manchester Airport. Greater Manchester Police said the arrests were carried out on Thursday morning following an ongoing investigation into allegations that individuals had been exploiting the airport’s duty-free shopping system.
Investigation into alleged abuse of duty-free system
Officers believe some suspects were either stealing duty-free goods or purchasing them before leaving the airport without boarding a flight. Police said initial enquiries suggest the alleged activity may have been taking place over a significant period. The force is working closely with Manchester Airport as part of the investigation.
Theft and tax evasion concerns
Greater Manchester Police warned that abusing the duty-free system can involve not only the theft of goods but also the evasion of taxes and duties that would normally be payable on products purchased within the UK. Investigators are using a range of tactics to identify those involved, including intelligence-led policing, enhanced CCTV coverage, plain-clothes officers and close partnership working with airport security teams.
Police warning to offenders
In a statement, Greater Manchester Police said officers, airport security staff and partner agencies patrol the airport every day, both in uniform and in plain clothes, to prevent and detect criminal activity. The force said it remains committed to tackling offences including theft, fraud, drug crime, violence and the abuse of duty-free concessions. Police warned that anyone travelling to Manchester Airport intending to commit offences is likely to already be known to officers through intelligence-led policing and should expect to be identified, investigated and, where appropriate, arrested. No further details about the three people arrested have been released while enquiries continue.
