More than 600 vehicles searched as part of immigration crime crackdown

Operation Lockstream is a national initiative that works to identify organised crime groups, identify these networks, protect those at risk, and ensure offenders are brought to justice.

These gangs often exploit vulnerable people by facilitating illegal entry into the UK, exposing them to dangerous journeys and exploitative conditions.

West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire, South Yorkshire, Humberside police and Border Force colleagues took part in 17 multi-agency operations around the county’s motorway network and Humberside port area across a two-week period.

Officers seized 10 cars and 16 e-bikes to protect road networks and tackle illegal working. 62 fines for traffic offences have also been issued totalling £8,550.

Six people were arrested in connection with organised immigration, fraud and other offences.

Detective Chief Inspector Jim Horsfield, of the Yorkshire and Humber Regional Organised Crime Unit, said: “Organised Immigration Crime is a complex and evolving threat and has been recognised in the UK as a national high-priority threat.

“Intelligence and evidence gathered will feed into further investigations and activity. It will help to inform how those using small boats are subsequently utilising the UK’s road and rail network and focusing on other possible clandestine methods of entry through ports and the onward use of road and rail.

“By disrupting organised criminal use transport networks, police and partners are protecting vulnerable people, reducing criminal activity and making it harder for organised crime groups to operate.”

Spotting the signs of potential organised immigration crime victims:

• No access to ID documents

• Physical or psychological abuse

• Debt bonded – paid less than minimum wage/ not paid

• Transported to and from work in vans, often in groups

• Being picked up and dropped off to work at unusual times

• Working very long hours

• Poor accommodation/overcrowding

• No formal contract of employment

• Inadequate work equipment

• Often accompanied/ chaperoned

• Being spoken for

• May not know their own address

If you see something that doesn’t look right, if you are worried about someone, or something looks suspicious call the police non-emergency number 101.

Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously via crimestoppers-uk.org or call 0800 555111.