A SPECIALIST police team has received national recognition for its efforts in aiding the fight against people-smuggling into the UK.

The Commercial Vehicle Unit (CVU), from the Joint Operations Unit for Hampshire and Thames Valley, was awarded a National Crime Agency (NCA) commendation at a special awards ceremony.

The team was honoured for its work in helping other agencies to tackle and disrupt organised crime groups trying to smuggle people into the country in the back of lorries.

Superintendent Simon Dodds, from the Joint Roads Policing Unit, said: “I am very proud of the commercial vehicle team and their continued efforts in setting national standards.

“The recognition, following a nomination by the immigration service, acknowledges their commitment to partnership working to help develop intelligence, improve prosecution opportunities but also provide victim support to many of the migrants.”