TWO suspected loan sharks have been arrested after an early-morning police raid in Hampshire.
Officers swooped on four houses in the county and a seized a significant amount of cash, as well as a number of documents relating to suspected illegal money lending.
The two men are now in custody being questioned by members of the England Illegal Money Lending Team, which works in partnership with Hampshire Constabulary.
Detective Sergeant Rob Faricy said: “Today’s operation was the result of a long-running investigation into suspected illegal money-lending activity and drugs supply in the Havant area.
“Loan sharks can prey on vulnerable victims who struggle to obtain credit through legitimate means, and often fund their activity through other crime including the supply of drugs.”
As well as arresting the two men in Havant, the money lending teams have secured more than 329 prosecutions across the country for illegal money lending and related activities.
Anyone who feels they have been the victim of a loan shark is urged to call 0300 555 2222, visit www.gov.uk/report-loan-shark, or call Hampshire Constabulary on 101.
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