Earlier this week, Fleetwood’s Neighbourhood Policing Team were joined by HMRC, Immigration, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, and Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority for an exploitation operation.
They visited a number of nail bars in Blackpool, Fleetwood, and Poulton, who were thought to be using illegal workers to staff their businesses.
- A store owner in Poulton was given a referral notice for a civil penalty by Immigration officers due to finding illegal workers in their premises.
- Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service will conduct a follow up visit with Wyre Borough Council to discuss fire safety concerns with a landlord at one of the premises visited.
- Safety notices were also served at another store and HMRC will be conducting further enquiries regarding offences relating to minimum wage.
Sergeant Andy Hill, from Fleetwood’s Neighbourhood Policing team, said: “Operations like these allow us to ensure that local businesses are staffed appropriately and safely.
“We have a strong relationship with our partners, which allows for all resources to be put to good use to protect vulnerable people and help disrupt exploitation.”
“You can report to police by calling 101, reporting online or calling 999 in emergencies. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

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