A LORRY driver was arrested after police discovered 16 Afghanistani asylum seekers in the back of a truck in Evesham.

The refugees, made up of 10 males and six females from Afghanistan, were found in the back of the lorry at an unnamed transport firm in Blackminster, when police, acting on a tip-off, visited the company at lunchtime on Tuesday. (December 18)

The two families and five individuals were taken to Evesham Police Station, where they were interviewed with help from an interpreter.

The Immigration service, Refugee Council and social services were all contacted.

PC Claire Ryan, of West Mercia Constabulary, said: "We received a call from someone saying they had seen the refugees either entering or leaving the van.

"They were fairly compliant and in good hygiene, good health and good spirits. They are now being relocated to various parts of the country by the Immigration Service.

"The driver of the lorry has been arrested and is currently helping police with their inquiries."

PC Tom Iddon, of Evesham police, said three of the older refugees were taken to hospital, although they were thought to be tired, rather than ill.

He added that the asylum seekers were from Kabul and confirmed that the lorry driver who had been arrested was not British.

The Home Office confirmed that a group of 16 Afghanistanis had been picked up from Evesham by the Immigration Service on Tuesday and said that the refugees had all claimed asylum and that their claims were being investigated.