Arrest made in Birmingham amid people smuggling adverts on social media investigation
The suspect was arrested during a raid in the Holyhead Road area of Handsworth today (Monday 22 December)
Officials investigating people-smuggling adverts on social media have arrested a 29-year-old man in Birmingham.
The suspect was arrested during a raid in the Holyhead Road area of Handsworth today (Monday 22 December) as part of a joint probe by the National Crime Agency (NCA) and West Midlands Police.
He was held on suspicion of facilitating illegal immigration and is accused of working as part of a smuggling gang that moves people around in lorries.
Investigators are examining a number of electronic devices while the suspect is questioned, the NCA said.
A second man was arrested for being in the UK illegally and handed over to immigration authorities.
NCA branch commander Kevin Broadhead said: "Tackling organised immigration crime remains a priority for the NCA, and we are determined to do all we can to target, disrupt and dismantle the networks involved.
"Our investigation, which is being conducted alongside partners from West Midlands Police, continues following this arrest."