the moving of the proceeds of crime through the financial system so as to conceal its nature. As a result of a European directive, the UK has implemented rules against this practice mainly through the Criminal Justice Act 1993. Aside from controlling the actual criminals, persons can be guilty of offences if they do not report suspicions or information as soon as reasonably practicable where the laundering concerns terrorism or drug money. Assisting another person to retain the benefits of all types of crime is also made an offence.
Collins dictionary of law. W. J. Stewart. 2001.