Breaking News: Police Crackdown on Illegal Trade in the UK
More than 300 people have been arrested across the UK in a police operation targeting illegal trade and organized immigration crime. This includes 57 migrants who crossed the Channel by boat. The operation took place from June 15 to June 20.
The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) reported that over £1 million in cash was seized during this five-day effort. Illegal tobacco, vapes, and cigarettes valued at more than £700,000 were also confiscated, along with cars, drugs, and e-bikes.
The operation focused on businesses such as barber shops, vape shops, car washes, food production sites, and nail salons. These locations are often exploited by criminal gangs for illegal activities.
Most UK police forces collaborated with agencies like the Home Office and Immigration Enforcement. A total of 362 arrests were made.
Minister for border security Alex Norris highlighted the cooperation between police and immigration enforcement. This crackdown follows the announcement of a new £30 million High Street organized crime unit.
As of June, there have been 11,638 arrivals to the UK via small boats this year, a 37% decrease compared to the same period in 2022.
