A man and two women were arrested on suspicion of illegal money lending after warrants were executed at two homes in Nottinghamshire.
The England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT) worked in partnership with officers from Nottinghamshire Police to execute the warrants in the Keyworth and Southwell areas on November 14, 2023.
The 43-year-old man and the women, aged 35 and 51, were taken into custody and are helping with inquiries. Officers seized electronic devices and documentation from the addresses.
The IMLT works in partnership with Nottinghamshire County Council Trading Standards Service to investigate and prosecute illegal money lenders.
Tony Quigley, head of the Illegal Money Lending Team, said: “Illegal money lending will not be tolerated in England and we are working hard with our partners to combat this crime.
“If anyone thinks they, or anyone they know, has been affected by illegal money lending, 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.