The wealthy UK socialite James Stunt, along with four other men, faces accusations of laundering over £200 million in criminal cash through UK-based gold dealers. The prosecution claims that Stunt’s company received 70% of the proceeds, with connections to international money launderers in Dubai, pointing to a massive, organized operation between 2014 and 2016.
In one of the largest money laundering cases ever seen in the UK, wealthy socialite James Stunt and four co-defendants are standing trial at Leeds Crown Court. The prosecution alleges that between 2014 and 2016, Stunt and his associates laundered over £200 million in criminal cash through two businesses: Bradford-based Fowler Oldfield and Hatton Garden’s Pure Nines. The dirty money, possibly from drug trafficking and other serious crimes, was paid into Fowler Oldfield’s NatWest account, then used to purchase gold, giving the funds the appearance of legitimacy.
James Stunt’s company, Stunt & Co, based in Mayfair, reportedly took in tens of millions from the scheme, with Stunt himself allegedly pocketing 70% of the profits. The prosecution claims that the operation escalated with the involvement of Shahid Qadar, a Dubai-based money laundering kingpin, which resulted in a massive surge in laundered cash.
This case highlights the role of high-profile individuals and businesses in facilitating large-scale money laundering operations. Regulators and financial institutions should remain vigilant, particularly concerning luxury goods dealers and high-net-worth clients.
FinTelegram seeks insights into further details about the laundering networks connected to Dubai and whether other European jurisdictions may have been involved in similar schemes.
