5:24pm Friday 25th November 2011

http://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/9386790.Man_arrested_on_suspicion_of_illegal_money_lending/

A COUNTY Durham man has been arrested on suspicion of illegal money lending, possession of drugs and money laundering.

The 52-year-old was arrested following an operation by the England Illegal Money Lending Team in the Bishop Auckland area this morning.

Members of the team, working in partnership with Durham County Council, executed a warrant at a residential property in the town, from which they seized cash and documentation.

The man is being held in custody at Bishop Auckland Police Station, where he is being questioned by officers from the illegal money lending team.

Joanne Waller, head of environment, health and consumer protection at Durham County Council, said: "We are pleased to be working with partners on such an important campaign, which I hope will save many people the pain and anxiety that can be caused by falling victim to loan sharks.

"Much of the information which helps campaigns like this one by the illegal money lending team comes from the public and I would like to thank residents in advance for their support."