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B Unit update on our incident M6 J10-10A from Monday afternoon. We saw a HGV in a refuge bay and went to speak to the driver. We became aware of banging from the trailer. As a result, 12 males were detained on suspicion of illegal entry to the UK. The crew were both arrested 1/
on suspicion of facilitating immigration offences. All have been handed over to @ukhomeoffice - the crew have been released pending investigation while the 12 males will now be processed for illegal entry to the UK. We’re aware this incident attracted some significant comment 2/
and speculation on social media and it is right we address that.
Firstly, as opposed to some speculation, we were not aware of the presence of the males until we got to the HGV, and had gone to it as a suspected unlawful stopping on the motorway. Many questioned why we did 3/
Firstly, as opposed to some speculation, we were not aware of the presence of the males until we got to the HGV, and had gone to it as a suspected unlawful stopping on the motorway. Many questioned why we did 3/
not move the vehicle off the motorway. It had broken down. We tried to drive it off but quickly realised this was not possible. Our only option was to stop both sides of the motorway. We work almost entirely on the motorway so are greatly experienced in both the huge dangers 4/
of the motorway environment and the disruption caused if we stop it. We do not take this lightly. Not knowing who was in the trailer nor their intent, we can not allow traffic to run past the scene at motorway speed. The risk of someone moving into the carriageway and being 5/
struck, and also the need to create a safe working space for us, @OFFICIALWMAS and @WestMidsFire has to be considered over anything else.
To add to the necessity to deal with the vehicle there and then, the trailer was sealed and at a temperature of 4°C even before we opened 6/
To add to the necessity to deal with the vehicle there and then, the trailer was sealed and at a temperature of 4°C even before we opened 6/
the trailer, we knew the males had been in there for at least 13-16 hours. The significant risk of serious illness, injury or death meant we had to get to them as soon as possible. Our primary purpose is to protect life and limb. These were seriously vulnerable people in need 7/
of immediate assistance at that time. We were able to get them out and treated there and then by @OFFICIALWMAS before moving them to a safer location. This was absolutely critical at that time and ensured their safety and welfare. We fully appreciate the delay and disruption 8/
this caused. This was entirely necessary and we appreciate the patience and support of the many motorway users at the time.
We have seen many of the comments in reaction to the media reports on this incident. The political and social context behind this matter is not for our 9/
We have seen many of the comments in reaction to the media reports on this incident. The political and social context behind this matter is not for our 9/
comment, but regardless of race or nationality, these human beings needed basic protection and immediate care before we even dealt with any crime or immigration matters. What is not acceptable and never tolerated is racism, violence or any form of hate speech. 10/
The incident was dealt with professionally, practically and in the safest, quickest and most appropriate manner. Thanks @OFFICIALWMAS @WestMidsFire @wolvespolice and @ukhomeoffice for their work. We also grateful to all the patient and careful road users affected. END. SC
