18 arrests made during week of action targeting organised immigration crime

Eighteen arrests were made, and 33 businesses were visited in Wiltshire as part of a national operation targeting organised immigration crime.

Between 21 September and 5 October, Wiltshire Police officers worked alongside the South West Regional Organised Crime Unit, Immigration Enforcement, Trading Standards and HMRC to visit a range of businesses including car washes, restaurants, vape shops, convenience stores and nail salons. The activity aimed to disrupt organised immigration crime, identify offenders and safeguard vulnerable people.

During the operation, officers engaged with 262 individuals, made 18 arrests and submitted 62 intelligence reports.

Officers also seized 1kg of cannabis, 75g of cocaine, 10,000 cigarettes and £46,605 in cash.

Detective Chief Inspector Megan Elkins said, "This was a successful operation with coordinated, multi-agency activity targeting those involved in organised immigration crime and the harm it brings to our communities.

"We know there is significant public concern about this type of offending, which facilitates the illegal movement of people into and out of the UK and enables individuals to remain in the country unlawfully, often in exploitative and vulnerable circumstances.

"These criminal networks are frequently linked to other serious offences, including county lines drug dealing, wider drug trafficking, money laundering and fraud.

"Organised immigration crime is often hidden in plain sight. We would encourage anyone who notices something that doesn't seem right within local businesses or their community, or who has concerns about someone's welfare, to report it so that action can be taken."

Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson joined officers during the week of action. He said, "Organised immigration crime causes real harm to both individuals and communities in our towns and rural areas. Those involved often exploit vulnerable people for financial gain, while their activities can be linked to wider criminality including drug supply, fraud and money laundering.

"The results of this operation demonstrate the value of a coordinated approach, with Wiltshire Police and partners working together to disrupt criminal activity, gather intelligence, safeguard those at risk of exploitation and bring offenders to justice. The seizure of drugs, illegal tobacco and significant amounts of cash shows the breadth of criminality often associated with these networks.

"Making Wiltshire safer and protecting vulnerable people are key priorities within my Police and Crime Plan. I welcome the proactive action taken during this period and would encourage anyone who has concerns about potential exploitation or criminal activity in their community to report it. Information from the public can be vital in helping agencies identify victims, disrupt offenders and prevent further harm."