News / Avon and Somerset Constabulary
Four arrested in human trafficking and slavery crackdown
Police have arrested four people on suspicion of human trafficking and slavery offences in Bristol.
Officers raided a Southmead nail bar on Monday (July 31) after receiving a call reporting concerns for a woman’s welfare.
The victim was found and taken to a place of safety, where police have confirmed she is receiving specialist help and support.
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Searches were carried out at the business premises and another address in St Paul’s, leading to the arrest of three woman, aged 46, 24 and 21 and an 18-year-old man on suspicion of human trafficking and slavery.
Detective inspector Mike Ray said: “We received information raising concern over the welfare of a woman.
“We acted on this information swiftly and officers attended a business premises to locate the woman and take her to a place of safety.
“Our priority is to ensure all potential victims are safeguarded and a full investigation is carried out to identify any criminal offences.”
On Sunday, World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, the force ran an awareness campaign to highlight the issue of modern slavery in Bristol, a city once described as a hub for the crime.
Local anti-slavery charity Unseen has published a video to raise awareness of the fact that modern slavery is still happening today:
Police urge anyone who suspects trafficking or slavery to call the non-emergency number on 101. More information can be found their website.
Alternatively, call Unseen’s Modern Slavery Helpline, which serves as a safe, 24-hour contact point, on 08000 121 700.
Read more: Police raid prostitution and human trafficking rings
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