A man has been arrested on suspicion of modern slavery and human trafficking offences, while six potential victims have been rescued following a raid in London.
The arrest came after a tip-off to the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA) in east London that people had been trafficked to the UK for financial exploitation while working in construction.
GLAA investigators and Metropolitan Police officers raided two addresses in the Newham and Barking areas yesterday morning (13 November).
The suspect, a 24-year-old Romanian man, has been interviewed and released under investigation pending further enquiries.
All six potential victims are Romanian men in their 20s. They are currently being assessed and given support.
GLAA senior investigating officer Tony Byrne said: “While we are in the early stages of the investigation, I am very pleased that we have already been able to help six potential modern slavery victims who are now getting the expert support that they need.
"We are grateful for the assistance provided by our colleagues in the police. Once again, this demonstrates the importance of positive partnership working to protect vulnerable and exploited individuals.”
Anyone who suspects someone is the victim of modern slavery or labour exploitation should get in touch with the GLAA. The intelligence team can be reached on 0800 4320804 or email [email protected].
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