Local News · Wiltshire-wide
Eighteen arrested in Wiltshire immigration crime crackdown
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Police have seized over £46,000 and arrested 18 people following a two-week operation targeting organised immigration crime across Wiltshire businesses.
A major crackdown on organised immigration crime has resulted in 18 arrests and the seizure of more than £46,000 in cash across Wiltshire. The operation, which ran from 21 September to 5 October, saw police and partner agencies visit 33 businesses in the county, including convenience stores, car washes, restaurants, vape shops, and nail salons.
In addition to the cash, officers confiscated 1kg of cannabis, 75g of cocaine, and 10,000 illicit cigarettes. The initiative, part of the national Operation Lockstream, aimed to disrupt criminal networks that facilitate the illegal movement of people into and out of the UK while protecting vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
Targeting Wiltshire roads
Wiltshire Police also focused heavily on the county’s road network, specifically the A419 and M4. Roads policing units stopped 128 vehicles during the operation, leading to 13 of the 18 total arrests. Officers utilised new motion detection technology, designed to detect subtle sounds or vibrations from individuals hidden inside vehicles.
Inspector Neil Duffin of the Roads Policing Unit noted that while Wiltshire has not seen a high volume of clandestine entries involving lorries, the technology serves as a vital deterrent. He stated that the force is committed to disrupting human trafficking and preventing the exploitation that often accompanies these criminal routes.
Multi-agency cooperation
The operation involved collaboration between Wiltshire Police, the South West Regional Organised Crime Unit, Immigration Enforcement, Trading Standards, and HM Revenue and Customs. Beyond the arrests, police engaged with 262 people and submitted 62 intelligence reports to assist ongoing investigations.
Detective Chief Inspector Megan Elkins highlighted the link between immigration crime and other serious offences, such as county lines drug dealing, money laundering, and fraud. She urged the public to remain vigilant and report any concerns regarding local businesses or individual welfare.
Wiltshire Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson, who joined officers during the operation, emphasised that these criminal networks often operate in plain sight. He added that the coordinated effort was essential to safeguard those at risk and bring offenders to justice.
Residents who notice suspicious activity are encouraged to report their concerns via the Wiltshire Police website or by calling 101. Those wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. In an emergency, always call 999.
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