Carlisle police operation targets immigration crime on high street
Spot-checks conducted across businesses and vehicles to disrupt criminal activity
Fourteen businesses in Carlisle were subject to spot-checks in a multi-agency operation aimed at tackling organised immigration crime on the high street.
The operation spanned two days, with police, immigration officials, Trading Standards, and Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service involved in checks ranging from barber shops to convenience stores and takeaways.
It targeted nine vehicles, including three e-bikes and six cars, to disrupt potential attempts at illegal activities.
Detective Chief Inspector James Yallop highlighted the complexity of organised immigration crime, saying, "Policing is intent on working with partners and other law enforcement agencies to tackle the gangs behind these crimes by various methods."
The checks resulted in two arrests on suspicion of drug dealing with both suspects bailed, and one arrest on suspicion of illegal entry and working, also bailed.
The operation aims to gather intelligence and disrupt illegal working, with the majority of individuals found to have the legal right to work.
Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, David Allen, praised the collaboration, noting the vulnerability of victims exploited by organised immigration crime.
He encouraged the public to learn the signs and report suspicious activity to the police via 101 or, in emergencies, 999.
Spotting signs of potential victims includes poor accommodation, inadequate work equipment, and lack of access to ID documents, among others.
The operation was conducted on 17th and 19th June as part of national efforts to combat immigration crime.