Seven arrested in car wash immigration raids

The raids were part of an operation to tackle organised immigration crime

Seven men have been arrested during immigration raids at two car washes.

Three men, one aged 33 and two 39, were detained on suspicion of modern slavery offences in Congleton, Cheshire, on Thursday. They have since been released on bail.

Four other men were arrested by immigration officers, and a number of items were seized, including a car, mobile phones and cash, Cheshire Police said.

Det Con Dominic Rogers said: "While the vast majority of businesses in Congleton are operating legitimately, there are some who exploit the most vulnerable people in order to make financial gains."

The force said the owners of the car washes could face fines of up to £45,000 per worker if they were found to have employed them illegally.

The raids were part of an ongoing operation to tackle organised immigration crime, and anyone with a concern is asked to contact the force.