The Kray Twins: Unveiling Their Money Making Methods

When discussing the criminal underworld, the names of the Kray Twins often come to mind. Tommy and Harry Kray, siblings from London who operated a criminal empire in the 1960s, are a significant part of British organised crime history. The term 'gangster' is often used interchangeably with 'organised crime', but in the case of the Kray Twins, their methods showcase the blurred line between the two.

Introduction to the Kray Twins

The Kray Twins, Tommy (born Thomas George Payne) and Harry (born Harry John Payne) Kray, emerged as a formidable duo in the early 1960s. Their criminal activities were characterized by brutality and fear, as they controlled much of the illegal gambling, prostitution, and drug trade in London during that era. Knowing the difference between the gangster methods and organised crime practices can provide a clearer perspective on the Kray Twins' operations.

Tactics of a Gangster: Characteristics and Approaches

To be a gangster, one must be unyielding, daring, and devoid of any form of compassion. The Kray Twins fit this description perfectly. They had no compunctions about using violence, intimidation, and fear to build and maintain their criminal empire. Their approach to making money was ruthless and uncompromising, with a complete disregard for the law and any ethical standards.

Violence and Intimidation

The Kray Twins used violence and intimidation as their primary tools to establish dominance over their criminal activities. Any rivals or witnesses who posed a threat were met with swift and brutal force. Tommy and Harry built a reputation for extreme violence, culminating in notable cases such as the murders of George Cornell and Ivan Bell. These incidents underscored the Kray Twins' willingness to use lethal force to eliminate competitors and protect their interests.

Protection Rackets and Extortion

One of the defining aspects of their criminal enterprise was their involvement in protection rackets. They used coercive tactics to extort money from various businesses in London, particularly those operating in the gambling, drug, and prostitution industries. By providing, or threatening to remove, protection, the Krays were able to control entire sectors of the London underground economy, ensuring a steady stream of funds without much resistance.

Organized Crime: A Structural Approach

Contrasting the Kray Twins with other criminal organizations, such as the Italian Mafia, demonstrates the differences between gangster methods and organised crime. Organised crime groups typically have a more structured and hierarchical approach, with clear lines of authority, codes of conduct, and elaborate systems of protecting their interests. While the Kray Twins certainly had some level of organization, their methods were more chaotic and lacking in the formalized structure seen in many other organised crime groups.

Key Differences Highlighted

The Kray Twins' criminal empire operated with a higher level of unpredictability and personal vendettas. Unlike more structured organisations, the Krays often used their personal relationships and connections to further their criminal activities, rather than relying on a rigorous organizational framework. Additionally, their tactics were more sporadic and lacked the comprehensive planning and long-term strategy seen in large organised crime groups.

The Legacy of the Kray Twins

The methods employed by the Kray Twins have left a lasting impact on the perception of organised crime in Britain. Their notoriety stems largely from the brutal nature of their methods, which differed significantly from the more sophisticated and structured approaches of other criminal organisations. The Kray Twins' story serves not only as a cautionary tale but also as an illustration of how gangster methods and organised crime practices can coexist, albeit in a chaotic and unpredictable manner.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Kray Twins stand out as a prime example of criminal operations that blurred the line between gangster methods and organised crime. Their ruthless tactics and the chaotic nature of their criminal empire offer a glimpse into the dark underbelly of London during the 1960s. Understanding the distinct characteristics of gangster methods and organised crime provides a richer context for appreciating the unique and enduring legacy of the Kray Twins.