13 people detained in M40 immigration swoop by ’15 police cars’

The incident occurred on the motorway near Bicester at just before 10am this morning (Thursday, December 11). As many as 15 police cars were spotted by eyewitnesses, who claimed that people had been detained from the lorry between junctions nine and 10 of the M40. Thames Valley Police has now issued a statement on the incident and confirmed that 13 people have been detained.

The force also added that the driver of the vehicle was arrested on suspicion of immigration offences. A TVP spokesperson said, "We received a report today (11/12) at 9.53am of a number of people in the back of a lorry travelling on the M40 between junctions 9 and 10. "The vehicle was stopped, and 13 people were detained.

The driver was arrested on suspicion of immigration offences. "The investigation is ongoing, and we are working with closely with our partners in the Home Office." Drivers on the affected strip of the M40 faced delays this morning as two of the three lanes were closed as a result.

Emergency services were in attendance at the scene, with eyewitnesses adding that riot vans, an ambulance, and police cars could all be seen.

The Home Office has been contacted for comment.

References

1. ^ Road safety spending 'delays' slammed after fatal crash at 'accident black spot' (www.bucksfreepress.co.uk)