Six arrests in multi-agency immigration crime crackdown across Yorkshire

The Yorkshire and Humber regional organised crime unit (YHROCU) searched 645 vehicles as part of an immigration crime crackdown (Image: West Yorkshire Police)

More than 600 vehicles have been searched across the Yorkshire motorway network and regional ports during a two-week crackdown on organised immigration crime.

West Yorkshire Police said the operation, which ran from September 21 to October 5, was led by the Yorkshire and Humber Regional Organised Crime Unit (YHROCU), as part of a wider national effort targeting criminal groups involved in illegal entry to the UK.

A spokesperson said a total of 645 vehicles were searched and 412 people spoken to during the operation, as officers seized ten cars and sixteen e-bikes to protect road networks and tackle illegal working.

Sixty-two fines for traffic offences were issued totalling £8,550.

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

Sixty-three intelligence reports were generated during the operation, with 53 relating directly to organised immigration threats.

Detective Chief Inspector Jim Horsfield of YHROCU 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.

"The intensification period highlights the continued work that our officers and partners do to protect our region."

The operation involved 17 multi-agency deployments across the motorway network and Humberside port area.

The operation formed part of Operation Lockstream, a national initiative that works to identify organised crime groups, and protect those at risk.