20 people arrested after drugs and human trafficking raids in Brum and across England

Police probing drug dealing, human trafficking and money laundering arrested 20 people during a large-scale operation in Birmingham and across England.

Thames Valley Police said an eight-month investigation into organised crime resulted in 18 raids throughout Reading, Berkshire, while seven addresses were searched in Birmingham, London, Blackburn and Sunderland.

Warrants came under the importation and distribution of Class A and Class B drugs, money laundering, modern slavery and human trafficking.

Suspects were held on suspicion of various offences, including Class A and Class B production and distribution after raids today, Wednesday, March 3.

A significant amount of cash, drugs, weapons and other items have also been seized, police said.

The operation supported by the National Crime Agency (NCA), the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit (SEROCU) and the Home Office.

“This partnership working is vital in identifying and disrupting the most harmful individuals and organised crime groups in order to protect our communities," said Det Insp Natalie Hall, of the Serious Organised Crime Unit, from Thames Valley Police.

“Tackling serious organised crime is a priority for Thames Valley Police, and we have dedicated Stronghold teams who focus on targeting those bringing drugs into our communities, and to cut off supply to those dealing locally.

“Investigating this type of criminality can be complex and time-consuming and this particular operation has been a culmination of months of hard work by officers.

"Therefore, I am pleased that we have been able to carry out these warrants and make a number of arrests.

“Further, I hope that this serves as a warning to those in the community who are involved in the supply and distribution of drugs as well as the exploitation of people, that we know who you are, where you are and we are committed to bringing you to justice."

Deputy Director Andrea Wilson, from the NCA, added: “Today’s activity highlights just how seriously we are taking the threat from Western Balkan organised crime groups.

"They are involved in various forms of serious and organised criminality, including the trafficking and supply of Class A drugs, organised immigration crime and corruption.

“Identifying and targeting these high harm networks requires a whole-system law enforcement approach.

"Anyone involved in widespread organised crime should take notice that the NCA and partners will do all we can to disrupt their activity and ensure they face justice."

If anyone has any information or suspicions about drug supply in their area, please make a report to police by calling 101 or online.

Alternatively, if you would prefer to remain anonymous you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.