Arrests made in immigration crackdown as delivery drivers targeted
Vehicle seized and fines imposed during the national Operation Lockstream
More than 30 arrests were made in a police crackdown on immigration and exploitation - with delivery drivers among those targeted.
West Mercia Police stopped 104 vehicles, made 31 arrests, seized 26 vehicles and issued fines worth £6,800 during the national Operation Lockstream.
There were also 18 intelligence reports submitted to help disrupt organised criminal gangs during the initiative, which was running last month and involved Safer Neighbourhood Teams, road policing officers and other agencies.
The operation focused on disrupting criminal activity connected to businesses and sectors vulnerable to exploitation, such as delivery services.
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."