National Crime Agency (NCA)
What You Need to Know
The National Crime Agency (NCA) is sometimes described as the UK’s equivalent of the FBI. It tackles serious and organised crime, often working across borders and alongside other enforcement bodies. If the NCA contacts you, it means they suspect involvement in serious criminal conduct or financial wrongdoing.
What does the NCA investigate?
The NCA’s remit is wide and includes:
Money laundering and financial crime.
Drugs and firearms trafficking.
Human trafficking and modern slavery.
Cybercrime and fraud.
Corruption and bribery.
Serious organised crime groups.
What powers does the NCA have?
The NCA can:
Apply for Account Freezing Orders (AFOs) and Unexplained Wealth Orders (UWOs).
Obtain Production Orders or Disclosure Notices.
Compel interviews under the Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005 (SOCPA).
Conduct dawn raids, searches, and seizures.
Bring criminal prosecutions in their own right or work with the CPS.
Why is NCA involvement serious?
Their cases often involve large sums of money or international links.
The NCA can use civil recovery powers (under POCA) without needing a criminal conviction.
Investigations are often complex, lengthy, and highly intrusive.
Can you challenge NCA action?
Yes. With the right legal advice, you can:
Challenge freezing orders or recovery proceedings.
Respond lawfully to disclosure demands or compelled interviews.
Defend yourself in criminal or civil proceedings.
Why you need early legal help
If the NCA contacts you — whether through a notice, order, or dawn raid — it’s critical to act quickly. Anything you say or provide can affect the entire course of the investigation. A solicitor can protect your rights, guide you through complex procedures, and build your defence from the outset.
Contact us
Liverpool – Head Office
- 19-23 Sir Thomas Street
- Liverpool
- L1 6BW
- office@cobleys.com
- 0151 242 9000
