Eden Neighbourhood Policing Team, alongside partners from Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service, Trading Standards and Immigration, carried out a multi-agency operation in Penrith on Thursday (28 August).
The operation involved agencies targeting a number of businesses in the area, carrying out enforcement activity relating to the illegal sale of tobacco and vapes and underage use.
Immigration officers carried out checks at all premises visited for any outstanding immigration offences, illegal workers and modern-day slavery risks.
Seven premises, including mini markets, barbers, and beauty salons, were visited as part of the operation.
Six arrests were made during the operation – three for immigration offences, one for a drugs offence and a further two men for offences under the Modern Day Slavery Act.
Officers also seized one vehicle.
A quantity of vapes and tobacco were seized by Trading Standards officers at two of the locations.
As well as the arrests, numerous employees were spoken to over the course of the visits, with officers focusing on safeguarding them from possible exploitation.
Immigration enforcement also served two Civil Penalty Referral notices on two businesses suspected of employing illegal workers.
The force is currently taking part in the Safer Streets Campaign, which is a partnership approach to keep people safe in town centres throughout the summer months.
The Constabulary is committed to providing visible and effective neighbourhood policing to prevent crime and anti-social behaviour. Our officers and staff will continue to undertake activity such as this to keep people safe.
Sergeant Bennet, Eden NPT said: “This operation supports the wider work of the Safer Streets Campaign, maximising public safety.
“As part of the operation, we were supported by colleagues from Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service who carried out a number of protection checks to ensure that buildings meet fire safety standards and protect lives in the event of a fire.
“Further investigations are being carried out in relation to those arrested for offences.
“I hope that the results from this operation will provide reassurance to Penrith residents that we are actively targeting this type of criminality, and we'd encourage anyone with information on other shops in their area selling illicit goods to get in touch either online or via 101 or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously.”
Josh Johns, Chief Immigration Officer for North West Immigration Compliance and Enforcement team, said: “Operations like this are vital to ensuring that businesses are operating legally and ethically, and we are working tirelessly to identify and address immigration offences across our communities, with operations and arrests up by 50%.
“We remain committed to working alongside our police partners to uphold the integrity of the immigration system and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.”
Catherine Hornby, Trading Standards Manager at Westmorland and Furness Council said: "This operation demonstrates the value of partnership working in tackling the sale of illegal tobacco and vapes in our communities. These products not only undermine legitimate local businesses but can also put people’s health at significant risk, particularly young people who these are being sold to.
“By working closely with Cumbria Police and partners, we have been able to take swift action and seize illegal goods. We will continue to work together to protect consumers and our communities, whilst supporting fair and safe trading across the area.”
Lauren Woodward, Assistant Chief Fire Officer at Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service, said: “We joined colleagues from Cumbria Police, Trading Standards and Immigration to support a multi-agency approach to making Cumbria Safer.
“Through our involvement we were able to review and advise on fire protection matters and offer fire safety advice to members of the community.
“Our interactions are vital opportunities to share our safety messages to residents, business owners and visitors.”