Channel tunnel – Geograph 3044433 by Nick Macneill – Library image
A couple who concocted a bizarre tale involving a mysterious relative named “Superman” have been ordered to forfeit £30,000 in cash.
The couple were stopped by Border Force officers at the Channel Tunnel in May 2020. When questioned about the large sum of money they were carrying, the man claimed that a family member known only as “Superman” had given him the funds following an insurance payout.
However, this outlandish explanation did not hold up under scrutiny with him later admitting that the money had actually come from the sale of a house in 2008.
A total of £30,000 was seized from the couple, including €21,300 found in the woman’s handbag and £10,300 hidden in a picnic basket. Despite facing money laundering charges, the couple’s trial was halted due to legal arguments. However, financial investigators from Kent Police pursued a civil case under the Proceeds of Crime Act and on November 22, 2024, a forfeiture order was granted, allowing authorities to seize the cash.
Detective Inspector David Godfrey said:
‘Whilst ‘the two people’ were never convicted of committing any criminal offences, they were unable to provide a reasonable explanation as to why they were attempting to leave the UK with so much money in their possession.
‘The best excuse ‘the man’ could come up with at short notice was that a relative known only as Superman had given it to him, which he later admitted was a lie.
‘The Proceeds of Crime Act allows officers to seize cash and goods when they are not satisfied with the explanation provided, pending further enquiries by our highly-skilled team of financial investigators. Such action allows us to prevent people making a living from illegal activity and potentially helping to fund other types of serious and organised criminality.’