Operation Lockstream sees 31 arrests and 26 vehicles seized across West Mercia

Operation Lockstream sees 31 arrests and 26 vehicles seized across West Mercia

Officers across West Mercia joined forces with partner agencies throughout October as part of Operation Lockstream, a national effort to tackle organised immigration crime and the exploitation often linked to it.

The operation focused on disrupting criminal activity connected to businesses and sectors vulnerable to exploitation, such as delivery services.

Safer Neighbourhood Teams and Roads Policing officers have worked alongside partner agencies to carry out a series of proactive enforcement and intelligence-led activities across Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire.

During the month-long operation officers stopped 104 vehicles, made 31 arrests and seized 26 vehicles. An estimated £6,800 in fines was issued, while 28 traffic offence reports were given out.

Officers also submitted 18 intelligence reports to support ongoing investigations to help identify and disrupt organised criminal networks.

Detective Sergeant Laura Hutson, from the Serious Organised Crime Unit, said: "Operation Lockstream demonstrates our ongoing commitment to tackling organised immigration crime and the exploitation that can often sit behind it. These offences can have a significant impact on vulnerable people, who are frequently targeted by those seeking to profit from criminal activity.

"Throughout October, officers worked closely with partner agencies across Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire to identify and disrupt those involved in criminality, while also safeguarding those who may be at risk of exploitation.

"The results of this operation, including 31 arrests, 26 vehicle seizures and more than 100 vehicle stops, show the value of proactive enforcement and intelligence-led policing. Just as importantly, the intelligence gathered will help us build a clearer picture of organised criminal networks operating in our communities.

"We will continue to work alongside our partners to target those who seek to exploit vulnerable people, disrupt criminal activity and ensure our communities remain safe places to live and work."