Four arrested during county-wide operation targeting modern slavery and exploitation

Four people have been arrested during a week of action targeting modern slavery, human trafficking and exploitation across Wiltshire.

Two people were arrested on suspicion of human trafficking and controlling prostitution for gain and have been released on bail pending further enquiries.

A further two people were arrested for immigration offences and have also been released on bail.

Officers from Wiltshire Police carried out a week-long operation focused on tackling modern slavery, human trafficking and exploitation across the county.

Detective Sergeant Kara Peet said: "Modern slavery and human trafficking destroy lives, often exploiting vulnerable people for financial gain. Controlling prostitution for gain is a serious offence, and our priority is always to identify and safeguard those at risk while pursuing those responsible.

"We remain committed to preventing exploitation, protecting victims and bringing offenders to justice. Operations like Strong highlight the importance of working closely with partners to identify vulnerability, share information and provide support.

"If you believe someone may be being exploited, or have concerns about activity in your community, please report it to us. Every piece of information can help protect vulnerable people and keep Wiltshire safe."

Operation Strong, coordinated by the Force's Missing and Exploitation Unit, took place from 19 to 23 October and saw officers work alongside partner agencies to identify vulnerability, safeguard those at risk and disrupt those responsible for exploitation.

This phase of the operation placed a particular focus on adult sexual exploitation, with activity taking place across Swindon and the wider county.

Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson said: "What stands out from Operation Strong is not just the enforcement activity, but the number of opportunities identified to safeguard vulnerable people and provide support where it is needed.

"These are often complex and hidden crimes, which is why a coordinated response between policing and partner agencies is essential."

"Protecting vulnerable people remains a key priority, and this operation demonstrates the value of combining intelligence, safeguarding and enforcement activity to identify risk, prevent exploitation and improve outcomes for victims."

Modern slavery and human trafficking can take many forms, including forced sexual labour, criminal exploitation, domestic servitude and labour exploitation. Victims are often hidden in plain sight and may be controlled through violence, threats, coercion or financial dependence.

Throughout the week, officers:

• Carried out five visits to vulnerable individuals
• Made five safeguarding referrals
• Submitted 73 intelligence reports
• Recorded 20 disruptions
• Seized £1,000 in cash
• Seized multiple mobile phones and a small quantity of cannabis
• Conducted 14 hotspot patrols
• Carried out two Project Vigilant deployments in Swindon, including in the Broadgreen area and at the Designer Outlet

Wiltshire Police works closely with partners across the county, including The Nelson Trust and local safeguarding organisations, to support vulnerable people and provide specialist assistance to those at risk of exploitation.

A multi-agency panel regularly meets to discuss safeguarding measures and support available to vulnerable women, ensuring those most at risk receive appropriate help and intervention.

As part of the operation, officers also carried out checks at known hotspot locations and acted on intelligence relating to exploitation and vulnerability.

Project Vigilant deployments were conducted throughout the week, with intelligence-led patrols taking place across the county to identify potential sexual predators, safeguard vulnerable people and prevent violence against women and girls.

Anyone concerned that someone may be a victim of modern slavery or exploitation is encouraged to report information to Wiltshire Police on 101, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.