A man has been arrested today on suspicion of illegal money lending offences, following an operation in North Hertfordshire.

The 61-year-old was arrested after an address in Baldock was raided by the England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT), assisted by Hertfordshire police officers.

Documentation and electronic devices were seized. The IMLT said the "suspected loan shark" was taken into custody and is helping with inquiries.

The IMLT works in partnership with Hertfordshire Trading Standards to investigate and prosecute illegal money lenders.

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Tony Quigley, head of the IMLT, said: "Illegal money lending will not be tolerated, and we work with our partners across England to investigate reports and support victims.

"If you, or anyone you know, has any information about illegal lending, then we would urge you to speak to our specialist team in complete confidence."

A spokesperson for Hertfordshire Constabulary said: "I can confirm that officers from the Stevenage Safer Neighbourhood Team arrested a 61-year-old man on suspicion of illegal money lending at an address in Baldock today, and he is currently in custody at Stevenage Police Station."

Anyone with concerns about illegal money lending can contact the Stop Loan Sharks 24/7 helpline in confidence on 0300 555 2222 or access support online at stoploansharks.co.uk. Live chat is available on the website between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.