More than 300 arrests in organised immigration crime crackdown

A significant police crackdown across the United Kingdom has resulted in more than 300 arrests as part of a concerted effort to dismantle organized immigration crime and illegal trade networks. The operation, which ran for five days from June 15 to June 20, also saw the seizure of over £1 million in cash.

Authorities confiscated illegal tobacco, vapes, and cigarettes valued at more than £700,000. Additionally, cars, drugs, and e-bikes were seized. The operation specifically targeted various business premises, including barber shops, vape shops, car washes, and nail salons. Police noted that these types of businesses are frequently exploited by criminal gangs to hide illegal employment, exploit vulnerable migrants, and launder illicit profits.

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This multi-agency activity sends a clear message to organised crime gangs that law enforcement agencies are working together to tackle illegal trade within our communities, and to bring offenders to justice.

This multi-agency initiative involved most UK police forces collaborating with bodies such as the Home Office and Immigration Enforcement. The arrests and seizures send a strong message to criminal organizations that law enforcement is actively working together to combat illegal trade and bring offenders to justice. The operation also comes in the wake of a new £30 million organized crime unit announced in May, following investigations into illicit businesses.

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provide opportunities to conceal illegal working, to exploit vulnerable migrants, and to launder proceeds of crime