A failed asylum seeker who evaded authorities for nearly 18 years has been arrested during a police operation in Staffordshire.
The man, who had been avoiding detection since 2007, was caught during Operation Lightning, a road safety initiative by Staffordshire Police.
The arrest came after officers conducted a routine traffic stop, leading to the discovery of his immigration status.
The individual has since been transferred to Border Force custody following his arrest.
The arrest came after officers conducted a routine traffic stop, leading to the discovery of his immigration status (Stock)
PA
During the stop, the driver falsely claimed to possess an Italian driving licence, which prompted further investigation by officers.
A Staffordshire Police spokesman said: "A story of woe and chances. This driver told us he had an Italian driving licence - and it has turned out he has never held a licence.
"He is also a failed asylum seeker since 2007 and has been arrested."
Police checks revealed the man had never held any valid driving licence.
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Operation Lightning is a dedicated police operation in Staffordshire focusing on road safety and crime prevention.
The initiative aims to reduce deaths and serious injuries on Staffordshire's roads whilst disrupting criminal activity on the road network.
"He will now be handed over to Border Force who are keen to have a chat," the police spokesman added.
The discovery of the well-hidden asylum seeker has come months after Labour axed plans to house asylum seekers along Weston Road in Stafford
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The discovery of the well-hidden asylum seeker has come months after Labour axed plans to house asylum seekers in old student halls in Stafford last year.
More than 250 individuals lodged objections against the scheme to house 481 asylum seekers in the city accommodation.
Now, Beaconside Group has unveiled plans to renovate the building into a block of 132 flats.
Official plans are yet to be handed over to the local council.
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