Eighteen people have been arrested and thousands of pounds in cash has been recovered, as part of a multi-agency operation to tackle organised immigration crime.

Across three days of action - between Tuesday 22 September and Thursday 1 October - officers stopped 66 vehicles and engaged with more than 100 people travelling on the M6 motorway.

Staffordshire Police has confirmed that over the course of the activity, £5,000 in cash was seized and 18 people were arrested in connection with immigration offences.

The police force said a "key aim" of the operation was to safeguard vulnerable people at risk of exploitation.

The Staffordshire Police road crime team worked with partners from Home Office Immigration and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) throughout.

Detective Sergeant Claire Mace, from the Staffordshire Police modern slavery and human trafficking unit, said: "Tackling organised immigration crime is a priority.

"We know that criminals use the road network for a range of illegal activities and working closely with our partners, we remain focused on targeting those who exploit vulnerable people solely for financial gain.

"This activity has generated strong results and valuable intelligence that will help us recognise patterns and better understand criminal networks, ensuring we identify offenders and bring them to justice."

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Fines and penalty points were also issued for traffic offences.

These included speeding, driving without due care and attention, using a mobile phone at the wheel and not wearing a seatbelt.

A spokesperson for Staffordshire Police said: "Our modern slavery and human trafficking team works hard all-year-round to safeguard vulnerable people at risk of exploitation.

"Alongside partners, including immigration enforcement and local authorities, they raise awareness of the issue and help to improve victim support.

"Please report any concerns, you could help us protect someone, by calling 101, or via our website. Or make a call anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."