Three men have been arrested in a major investigation into counterfeit ID documents.

Ham & High: The seized documents after three men were arrested. Picture: NCAThe seized documents after three men were arrested. Picture: NCA (Image: Archant)

The men, aged 33, 36 and 37 were detained on suspicion of Identity Documents Act offences on Tuesday after National Crime Agency officers witnessed what they suspected to be a handover in the Hackney.

An envelope containing a number of documents was recovered from the scene and officers then searched the men’s homes.

At the address of the 37-year-old suspected false documents were recovered as well as what is believed to be a sophisticated document factory, including computers, printers and other equipment used in the manufacture of counterfeits. Around £15,000 cash was also seized.

NCA’s Mark McCormack said: “These documents are a key enabler of criminality. They can be used to help people gain work or services illegally, or potentially open bank accounts for money laundering.”

The 33-year-old has been released under investigation, but the other two men are in custody.