Nine suspected illegal workers arrested in Herefordshire during a police operation targeting illegal employment at four businesses.
West Mercia Police collaborated with Fire and Rescue, Immigration, and Council Licensing. This partnership is referred to as MATES.
The operation uncovered nine individuals living and working in the UK illegally. Employers received fines from authorities, and Fire and Rescue issued enforcement papers.
Four Chinese workers, two Indian men, and one Vietnamese woman were apprehended, along with two additional Chinese men. They worked at a nail salon, a site, and a restaurant.
Four Chinese workers were located in Leominster, where Immigration interviewed and processed them, finding no indications of slavery. These individuals are currently out on bail, and Immigration is continuing its investigation.
Two Indian men were arrested in Lyde, suspected of carrying fake documents, and Immigration intends to deport them.
Two Chinese men were arrested at Planet Buffet on Commercial Road in Hereford. Immigration processed them and released them on bail.
Sergeant Reynolds deemed the operation successful, noting that nine suspects were arrested due to teamwork. Immigration is processing those arrested to investigate illegal workers and crime.
Sergeant Reynolds emphasized that organized crime does not belong in Hereford. Hereford is a cathedral city and the county town of Herefordshire. Leominster is a nearby market town.