M40 – update after 13 migrants found in back of HGV

Some 15 police cars were spotted beside the HGV on the motorway between junctions nine and 10 near Bicester on December 11. The force also added that the 51-year-old driver of the vehicle was arrested on suspicion of immigration offences. Home Office officials also got involved with the investigation.

In an update, a police spokeswoman said the police bail for the arrested driver expired on June 3, but he is now under investigation as enquires continue. She said: "He has been released from police bail but remains under investigation. Our investigation is ongoing."

It has not been made clear where the lorry or indeed the driver came from. Images from social media at the time appear to show foreign plates on the white lorry. Motorists reportedly saw officers leading a row of men out of the trailer and onto the hard shoulder.

The Home Office did not comment on the specifics of the Oxfordshire case when approached for comment.

A spokeswoman for the Home Office said: "The Home Secretary has announced the most sweeping reforms to tackle illegal migration in modern times which will make Britain a less attractive destination for illegal migrants, and will make it easier to remove and deport them.

"Our Borders Act allows Government and law enforcement agencies to work with the DVLA to intercept threats when a suspicious vehicle enters the UK."

References

1. ^ New town planned around RAF base with 2,700 new homes (www.oxfordmail.co.uk)