Two arrested and vehicles seized in police operation targeting organised immigration crime on M1 in Northamptonshire

Officers stopped and inspected 27 commercial vehicles at Watford Gap Services as part of a nationwide crackdown on criminal gangs exploiting Britain's transport networks.

The operation involved Northamptonshire Police's roads policing team, Immigration Enforcement, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and other specialist agencies.

Checks concentrated on lorries arriving in Britain from overseas, with officers examining vehicles travelling through the county.

HMRC inspected 10 heavy goods vehicles, while police submitted six intelligence reports and shared information with partner organisations.

Watford Gap has previously been the scene of incidents involving people leaving lorries after entering the country concealed inside them.

Police say Northamptonshire's position on the strategic road network makes it particularly important in efforts to disrupt organised immigration crime.

Detective Sergeant Elli Amson, of Northamptonshire Police's International Liaison Team, said: "This operation is about disrupting the organised criminal groups who seek to exploit both vulnerable people and legitimate businesses.

"Northamptonshire sits at the heart of the country's strategic road network, which means we have an important role to play in identifying and disrupting this type of criminality."

Officers also advised hauliers about improving vehicle security and recognising signs of interference during journeys.

Detective Sergeant Amson stressed that most drivers and haulage companies were law-abiding businesses potentially vulnerable to exploitation by criminal networks.

She added: "Checking vehicles and security measures throughout a journey can help identify signs of interference early and prevent drivers and businesses finding themselves caught up in criminal activity."

Police said intelligence gathered during the operation would help support further investigations and enforcement activity.

Anyone with information about suspected organised immigration crime can contact Northamptonshire Police online or call 101. In emergencies, call 999.