Police raid Hull pubs for showing satellite sport illegally
Police have raided 12 pubs in Hull and arrested three people as part of an operation to crack down on pubs using foreign satellite broadcasts.
The raids follow complaints from other licensees in the area that pubs were allegedly offering Premiership games illegally.
The operation, which involved around 70 officers, also resulted in the recovery of broadcasting equipment in Oldham.
Two men were arrested for breach of contract and money laundering. One was arrested for drug offences and obstructing an officer.
Private prosecutions will be undertaken by Media Protection Services (MPS) on behalf of the Premier League.
MPS managing director Ray Hoskin said: "This is the biggest crackdown on this type of criminal activity and is in response to concerns of honest publicans whose trade is suffering through the minority who flout what is now clear law.
"We are receiving overwhelming success in the courts and this prompt and expert reaction by Humberside Police will be welcome news for the licensed trade, particularly in the Hull area."
Detective Inspector Michael Reed of Humberside Police said: "This joint operation was conducted to provide reassurance to the law abiding licensees in the city who have lost significant trade as a result of illegal criminal activity."
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