IN a joint operation between Trading Standards and Devon and Cornwall Police, a search warrant was executed at an address in Hatherleigh on April 26 and a 38-year-old man was arrested.

The suspect remains under investigation for illegal money lending after being interviewed at Heavitree Road Police Station in Exeter.

Tony Quigley, head of service for the national Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT), said: ‘We will continue to work with local authorities and the police to combat loan sharks. These criminals cause untold misery among our local communities.

‘If you’ve been issued a loan with no paperwork attached, or are receiving threats over a loan you have already paid off, please get in touch with the IMLT on 0300 5552222. Your call will be handled by a trained IMLT officer and all information will be treated in the strictest confidence.’

Stephen Gardiner, interventions manager at Devon and Somerset Trading Standards Service, said: ‘Illegal money lending often involves extortionate rates which trap victims in a cycle of debt.

‘That is why Devon and Somerset Trading Standards Service are happy to assist the Illegal Money Lending Team in investigations which will help protect our local communities from such consequences.’

The Times is replacing its Police Desk section with a whole page of police new called #newsfromtheblues — see page 54 of this week’s Times to see its first outing.