Several arrests were made during the raids
Money, drugs and illegal vapes seized during the raids in Wirral(Image: Merseyside Police )
Police raided nail salons, car washes and corner shops as part of a huge crackdown. The operation, which also involved Wirral Trading Standards, took place on Friday, May 2, and saw officers visit a number of local businesses in Birkenhead, Bebington, Bromborough and Eastham.
In total, nine people were arrested for immigration offences – seven men in their 30s and two women in their 30s and have been bailed for immigration offences. There were also a number of illegal vapes seized from a shop, and offences such as the manipulation of utility services like electricity, gas, or water were uncovered at a nail salon and another store had breached licencing conditions.
During the operation, officers also arrested a man in his 20s on suspicion of possession with intent to supply class B drugs. He has since been released under investigation.
Sergeant Peter Hanson said: “We know that many extremely vulnerable people come to the UK in the pursuit of a better life, but sadly these people are instead exploited by organised crime groups.
“Along with our partners, including Wirral Trading Standards, we are committed to proactively tackling organised crime and this day of action shows how we will use all our combined powers to prevent and disrupt their activity.
“However, to have the greatest impact we need information from the public to tell us about any illegal activity they are aware of so we can take action.
“This can either be through a direct report to us or via the independent charity Crimestoppers, which is completely confidential and no-one but you will ever know you made that report.”
Money, drugs and illegal vapes seized during the raids in Wirral(Image: Merseyside Police )
Councillor Paul Stuart, Leader of Wirral Council, said: “This is another strong example of how the council and police are working together in Wirral to tackle a range of offences—many of which are linked to organised crime groups hiding behind the front of legitimate businesses.
“These groups often exploit vulnerable people, and we are determined to stop that. I join the police in urging law-abiding residents to support these efforts by reporting any suspicions they may have.
“Your information can make a real difference in protecting those at risk and helping us drive these criminals out of our communities.”
Anyone with any information about crime in their area is asked to call Merseyside Police on 101, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
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