Suspected illegal immigrants arrested in West Berkshire

17 men and lorry driver arrested after exiting van in Thatcham

Seventeen suspected illegal immigrants have been arrested in West Berkshire today (Tuesday).

Police swooped on Colthrop after receiving reports of a group of men exiting a lorry in Colthrop Lane at 10.10am.

The search spread to nearby villages with a police helicopter, riot vans and numerous police cars dispatched.

Thames Valley Police has arrested 17 men on suspicion of immigration offences.

Police spokeswoman Connie Primmer said that the arrests ranged from entering the UK without to leave or a passport.

All 17 are currently in custody and the cases have been referred to the UK Border Agency.

The driver of the lorry, a 45-year-old man from Turkey, was also arrested.

The arrest is on suspicion of helping an asylum seeker enter the UK.

Miss Primmer said that police were still conducting searches in the area and that any residents with concerns should contact the force on the 101 number.