Three men were arrested and nine warnings issued during a significant multi-agency raid targeting stolen cars and worker exploitation in Rochester.
The operation, conducted on 7 April 2021, focused on three metal businesses located in Medway City Estate. Authorities involved included Medway Council, HMRC, the Environment Agency, Kent Fire and Rescue Service, and the Home Office.
During the raid, officials discovered several workers and two young children living in poor conditions. As a result, Medway Council’s Housing Team issued nine Emergency Prohibition notices to the businesses. Failure to comply with these notices could result in fines of up to £30,000.
Additionally, the teams uncovered an illegal bar operating in breach of Covid-19 restrictions. This matter has been referred to Kent Police Licensing for further investigation.
Regarding the arrests, a 55-year-old man from Strood was taken into custody on charges of car theft and possession with intent to supply cocaine and cannabis. A 50-year-old man, also from Strood, faces charges of possession with intent to supply cocaine. Meanwhile, a 63-year-old man from Rochester was stopped in Rainham and arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods and carrying an offensive weapon.
All three men have since been released pending ongoing investigations.
Sergeant Ross Haybourne of the Kent Police Medway Community Safety Unit said: “This was a pre-planned operation with multiple agencies. Using our combined powers and expertise, we will always take the toughest action against offenders.”
A Medway Council spokesperson added: “Those who exploit workers often run other organised crime. We will keep working relentlessly to identify and stop these criminals.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
