The arrests were made on Thursday, February 26, during Operation Foxtail, which focuses on disrupting organised and serious crime on the roads.

They were arrested for immigration offences after a coach transporting them to work was stopped.

A Civil Penalty Referral Notice was issued to the employer involved, carrying a potential fine of up to £60,000 per illegal worker.

Five more arrests were made during other vehicle stops throughout the day.

Eight cars were also seized because the drivers had no driving licences.

The Roads Policing Team, Commercial Vehicle Unit, ANPR team Moonshot, and Immigration Enforcement officers all collaborated on the operation.

PC Josh Preston said: "These operations give us a vital chance to tackle a range of criminal activity.

"We’re able to disrupt and break down organised networks involved in drug supply and human trafficking, helping safeguard those who are most at risk."

The operation was funded by the Home Office’s Terminus Fund.

© Eastern Daily Press