In a significant crackdown on organized crime, over 300 individuals have been apprehended by law enforcement authorities. The operation, conducted nationwide from June 15 to June 20, resulted in the seizure of drugs, cigarettes, and various items, including a sum of £1 million in cash.
Among the 362 arrests made during the operation, the National Police Chiefs’ Council reported that 57 were individuals who had recently entered the UK via boat crossing the English Channel. The seized items also included illegal tobacco products, vapes, and cigarettes valued at over £700,000, as well as 92 cars and 31 e-bikes.
Furthermore, authorities confiscated around £131,000 worth of drugs as part of the operation, which targeted organized immigration crime at establishments like barber shops, vape stores, car washes, food production facilities, and nail salons. These businesses are commonly exploited by criminal groups for illegal activities such as money laundering and human trafficking.
The collaborative effort involved 39 police forces across the UK, along with agencies like the Home Office, Immigration Enforcement, and Trading Standards. DCC Wendy Gunney, the lead of the organized immigration crime domestic taskforce, emphasized the joint endeavor to combat illegal activities within communities and bring wrongdoers to justice.
Gunney highlighted the determination to address exploitation within the UK and urged the public to report any suspicious activities in local businesses. Minister for border security and asylum, Alex Norris, praised the coordinated approach between law enforcement agencies and partners in tackling organized immigration crime and emphasized ongoing efforts to safeguard communities.
