Modern slavery officers visit nail bar

Proactive officers have visited potential victims of modern slavery and human trafficking as we continue to disrupt crime and protect the vulnerable in Staffordshire.

This week is Anti-Slavery Week, with Anti-Slavery Day falling today (Friday 18 October).

The aim is to raise awareness of how to spot the signs of this hidden crime and encourage the public to report any concerns.

On Wednesday (16 October), a specialist team went to a nail bar following concerns from the public over the welfare of people working there.

Officers visited the address and spoke to several individuals.

Detective Inspector Carla Thompson, from our modern slavery and human trafficking team, said: “This week officers from our dedicated team have carried out proactive operations based on intelligence and information from our communities and targeted suspects in ongoing investigations.

“On Wednesday officers visited a nail bar following contact from the public. Those at the address gave us their full co-operation and we were able to carry out the necessary checks. No further action was taken.

“The more people can recognise and report modern slavery the more effectively we can safeguard victims and bring offenders to justice. So if you suspect modern slavery in your community, please pass on your concerns.

“Signs to look out for include individuals seeming scared or withdrawn, having limited contact with family or the outside world, or being unkempt in their appearance.”

Anyone who is worried that someone may be a victim of modern slavery can contact us on 101, or through our Live Chat facility on our website. In an emergency, always call 999.

To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

We launched Operation Target in May last year and have been working with local police forces to disrupt and pursue criminals who plan, organise and commit serious criminal offences across the county, including drug supply, illegal firearms, knife crime, human trafficking and sexual exploitation.