Eight men and two women – aged between 19 and 52 – on suspicion of conspiracy to facilitate a breach of immigration law by assisting illegal entry into the UK, conspiracy to money launder, and participating in the activities of an organised crime group.
Police in Greater Manchester along with Immigration Enforcement targeted a number of the locations targeted were local businesses including a travel agent, money exchange business, mini-mart, and takeaway as well as at residential addresses.
A significant quantity of cash, documents, and electronic devices were seized and will be examined as part of the investigation.
All of the suspects are believed to be linked, utilising their business means and services to plan and assist the illegal entry of migrants into the UK through falsifying travel documents and putting travel plans in place for them.
They remain in police custody for questioning.
