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Suspected loan shark arrested in Manchester

A man was arrested on suspicion of illegal money lending following an operation in Manchester.

The England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT) worked in partnership with officers from Greater Manchester Police to execute a warrant at an address in the Didsbury area on Wednesday, November 8.

The 56-year-old was taken into custody and is helping with inquiries. IMLT officers seized electronic devices and documentation from the address.

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

Tony Quigley, Head of the Illegal Money Lending Team, said: “We will not tolerate illegal money lending in England and we are determined to do everything we can to combat this crime.

“We are also here to help those who may be in debt to an illegal lender – if anyone has been affected by this, they can get in touch with our specialist team in confidence for expert advice and support.”

The Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) estimates that there are up to 1.08 million people in debt to loan sharks in England.

Anyone with concerns about illegal money lending can contact the Stop Loan Sharks 24/7 Helpline in confidence on 0300 555 2222 or access support online at www.stoploansharks.co.uk. Live Chat is available on the website between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.