More than 40 people have been arrested in the first week of an operation targetting “foreign national offenders” throughout the region.

Operation Kestrel launched last Monday sees the region’s three forces Northumbria, Durham and Cleveland work together with Immigration Enforcement and Border Force, voluntary organisations and local authorities.

Across the region 46 people were arrested for slavery and immigration offences and nine vulnerable victims safeguarded.

More than 60 premises were visited, 14 warrants carried out and 623 vehicles searched - 13 of the vehicles were uplifted.

Northumbria Police’s Assistant Chief Constable Helen McMillan said: “It has been very encouraging to see the fantastic partnership work that has taken place so far as part of Operation Kestrel and I’m pleased with how it is progressing.

“There will be more activity across the region this week as we continue to work together to safeguard vulnerable victims and arrest those responsible.”

Activity includes:-

Fourteen people were arrested for slavery offences after nine warrants were carried out and a further five addresses searched in Newcastle.

Five victims were safeguarded as a result of the arrests and take to a victim reception centre where they will receive help and support.

Immigration Enforcement have carried checks on illegal working at businesses including car washes, nail bars, takeaways and restaurants.

An illegal working operation on Friday led to six people with no leave being detained.