'Operation Sharknet' launches in Milton Keynes to curb illegal money lenders
The fight against loan sharks is coming to Milton Keynes as Operation Sharknet is launched in the area.
The England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT) is working with Milton Keynes City Council, SOFEA community larder, Acorn Community Bank and Thames Valley Police to bring its campaign to the area to raise awareness about the dangers of loan sharks and keep residents safe.
The IMLT, known as Stop Loan Sharks, was set up over 20 years ago to investigate and prosecute illegal lenders and support borrowers across England.
Awareness-raising events will take place in Milton Keynes on Tuesday June 2 and Wednesday June 3rand the Stop Loan Sharks team will be back in the area again from July 13 to July 15.
Team members will be on hand to let people know about the support available to those who have been targeted by loan sharks. They will also offer information on how to spot the signs of a loan shark, what the dangers are and what the safe alternatives are if they need to borrow money.
Dave Benbow, head of the IMLT, said: “ “Illegal money lenders bring real misery to communities, and illegal lending is frequently linked to wider criminal behaviour such as theft and drug offences. If anyone in the area thinks they may have been targeted by an illegal lender, we would urge them to come and speak to us in confidence.”
Taraji Ogunnubi, head of community larders at SOFEA, said: “ "Many people may not realise the risks associated with illegal money lending until they are already trapped in difficult situations. We want our larders to be safe, welcoming spaces where people not only access food, but also trusted information, guidance, and wider support. Raising awareness about the dangers of loan sharks is a vital part of protecting individuals, families, and communities from further harm.”
Phoebe Fernandes, membership development manager at Acorn Community Bank, said: “We are committed to providing safe, ethical and affordable financial services, especially for those who need them most.”
During the events, the Stop Loan Sharks team will be at the following locations:
Tuesday June 2:
Lidl (foyer) – Brooklands 10.30am–12.30pm
Walkabout – Bascote, Buckby & Broadwater, Tinkers Bridge 1.30pm–2.30pm
Wednesday June 3:
Lidl (foyer) – Bletchley 10.30am–1pm
Water Hall Larder – Fern Grove, Bletchley, 1.30pm–3.30pm
Walkabout – Fern Grove, Melfort Drive & Torridon Close 1.30pm–2.30pm
Monday July 13:
Lidl (foyer) – Blakelands 10.30am–1pm
Rainbows Larder – Pepper Hill School, Kingsfold, 1.30pm–3.30pm
Walkabout - Bekanscot Court & Runnymede, Giffard Park 1.30pm–2.30pm
Tuesday July 14:
Lidl (foyer) and Wolverton Library 10.30am–1pm. Drop in at Wolverton Library 2.30pm to 3.30pm.
Walkabout – St George’s Way, Green Lane & Moon Street 1.30pm–2.30pm
Wednesday July 15:
Springfield Larder – Springfield Boulevard, 2pm–4pm
Since it was set up in 2004, the IMLT has made hundreds of arrests and secured around 434 successful prosecutions, with illegal lenders locked up for more than 618 years. More than £92 million in illegal debt has been written off, and around 33,000 borrowers have been supported.
Anyone who has been affected by illegal money lending should call the Stop Loan Sharks 24/7 confidential helpline on 0300 555 2222 or access support online here . Live Chat is available on the website and WhatsApp messages can also be sent to 07700 102773.