A major crackdown on illegal lending will take place in Wychavon next week.
The England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT), known as Stop Loan Sharks, will launch Operation Sharknet in the district from June 22-25 with support from Platform Housing Group, Wychavon District Council, West Mercia Police and Rooftop Housing Group.
Dave Benbow, head of the IMLT, said: “We’re really looking forward to visiting Wychavon and doing what we can to help keep local families safe from illegal lenders.
“Illegal money lenders bring real misery to communities, often targeting the most vulnerable, and their activities are frequently linked to wider criminal behaviour such as theft and drug offences.
“If anyone in the area thinks they may have been targeted by an illegal lender, we would urge them to come and speak to us in confidence.
“We’re here to listen, to help, and to support people – never to judge.”
The IMLT was set up over 20 years ago to investigate and prosecute illegal lenders and support borrowers across England.
During their Wychavon visit, the team will offer advice on recognising loan shark activity, understanding the risks, and finding safer ways to borrow.
During the week, the Stop Loan Sharks team will be at the following locations:
Since it was set up in 2004, the IMLT has secured around 434 successful prosecutions and written off more than £92 million of illegal debt.
Anyone affected by illegal money lending can call the 24/7 confidential Stop Loan Sharks helpline on 0300 555 2222.
