Loan shark suspects arrested in Salford

Two people have been arrested in Salford as part of an investigation into allegations of illegal money lending.

The England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT) worked in partnership with officers from Greater Manchester Police to execute warrants at three addresses in the Little Hulton area on the morning of Wednesday, April 17.

A 36-year-old man and a woman aged 34 were arrested at one address and electronic devices were seized. They were taken into custody to be questioned by IMLT officers and later bailed pending further inquiries.

The IMLT works in partnership with Salford City Council Trading Standards to investigate and prosecute illegal money lenders.

Tony Quigley, head of the IMLT, said: “These arrests are part of an ongoing investigation into allegations of illegal money lending in this area.

“We work hard with our partners to tackle this crime and we would urge anyone who has any information about illegal lending activities to come forward.

“We realise that people may find it difficult to admit that they have borrowed from an illegal lender, but we want to reassure them that they have done nothing wrong. Our officers are there to provide expert help and advice 24/7.”

There are up to 1.08 million people in debt to loan sharks in England, according to figures from the Centre for Social Justice (CSJ).

This year marks the 20^th anniversary of the IMLT. Since its launch, the team has supported over 31,500 people and written off over £91.2 million worth of illegal debt, securing over 418 prosecutions for illegal money lending, leading to 598 years in jail.

Anyone who has been affected by illegal money lending should call the Stop Loan Sharks 24/7 Helpline on 0300 555 2222 or access support online at www.stoploansharks.co.uk. Live Chat is available on the website from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.