Illegal Money Lending - A Crack-Down In The South West

The Government recently introduced a new initiative against illegal money lending creating a number of Illegal Money Lending Teams (IMLT). The South West IMLT - a 10 strong team from within Bristol City Council operate from two bases in Plymouth and Bristol. Their operational boundaries cover most of the Western Circuit.

The South West IMLT has not shied away from publicity. They boast a 24 hour helpline for victims, the use of undercover investigators, and work alongside police and immigration officers to bring to justice 'loan sharks'. They have been profiled by the BBC, Bristol Evening Post, Gloucestershire Echo and the Plymouth Herald amongst others (see their websites). There have been similar exercises throughout the country. Their raids, arrests, seizures and prosecutions also gain wide publicity.