NCA carries out major people trafficking operation
The National Crime Agency (NCA) has announced it is currently carrying out a major operation targeting a suspected people smuggling organised criminal network in the North-East, London and the South Coast.
In a statement released this morning, the agency revealed the operation is the latest phase of a year-long investigation, which has involved law enforcement colleagues in the UK and in Europe.
More than 20 properties have been raided by NCA officers supported by Cleveland, Northumbria, Sussex and Metropolitan Police colleagues, and a number of arrests have been made.
The Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority confirmed it is involved with the operation taking place in the North-East.
The operation is ongoing with searches taking place at several locations including Middlesbrough, Hartlepool, Stockton, Newcastle, Hastings and London.
The NCA added a full update will follow later.
• Comment below on this story. You can also tweet us to tell us your thoughts or share this story with a friend. Our editorial email is [email protected]
