Blackpool man released under investigation after £50,000 in cash found stashed in Audi

The 31-year-old was taken into custody for questioning after officers stopped a black Audi under the Misuse of Drugs Act in Gorton Street at around 10.35pm on Tuesday (February 9).

Officers searched the car, saying they suspected it was being used by drug dealers in the resort, and found £50,000 in cash stashed inside.

A further £15,000 in cash was uncovered following a search of the suspects home and the man was arrested on suspicion of money laundering.

Lancashire Police said the 31-year-old Audi driver has been released but an investigation has been launched under the Money Laundering and Proceeds of Crime Act.

"He has been released under investigation pending further enquiries," said a police spokesman.

Following his arrest on Tuesday night, Det Insp Mark Riley, of Lancashire Police's Economic Crime Unit, said: "The Economic Crime Unit will do all it can to deny wealth to those involved in crime.

"We will proactively and robustly target those who seek to exploit the most vulnerable in society.

"An arrest has been made and a significant amount of cash seized by police.

"Our enquiries are ongoing."