EIGHT ‘SLAVES’ RESCUED IN POLICE RAID

COPS rescued eight people and arrested three suspects after uncovering a modern slavery ring.

More than 100 officers carried out a huge raid on a home in Iver, Bucks, after responding to reports of forced labour on building sites.

The arrests were made at a residential property and eight people, believed to be victims of modern slavery, were safeguarded.

Thames Valley Police led the operation alongside the National Crime Agency (NCA), and the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority.

Detective Inspector James Mather said: “This operation has safeguarded vulnerable people in society and a number of arrests have been made.

“Modern slavery is the exploitation of people for personal or commercial gain. Officers continue to work closely with our partner agencies to ensure those who carry out this activity are disrupted and any victims are supported.”

Tom Dowdall, NCA Deputy Director, said: “Tackling the threat of modern slavery and human trafficking, including the safeguarding of the vulnerable, remains a priority for UK law enforcement and multi-agency operations such as this are key to improving our intelligence picture.

“Together, we’re using all the tools at our disposal to disrupt the organised criminals who seek to exploit the most vulnerable people in our society for profit and bring them to justice.”