'Trafficking Victims' Rescued By Leeds Police

Police say 17 men, women and children have been rescued from exploitation as part of an investigation into human trafficking in Leeds.

Eight people have also been arrested as part of the probe.

The discoveries came two months after officers started investigating an organised criminal gang believed to be behind human trafficking, large-scale benefit fraud and labour exploitation in Leeds and elsewhere.

Most of the victims, who are mainly from Slovakia, have been found living in poor conditions with “little if any” income in the west and south of Leeds, West Yorkshire Police said.

Others were being forced to work long hours for little or no pay, police said.

Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector Andy Williams said: “We hope this will send a message to those who are involved in this type of activity and give other victims confidence that the authorities can provide the help and support they need to escape from their situations.

“Our criminal investigation into these matters is ongoing and we expect to make further arrests as part of our efforts to bring those responsible to justice.” 

The three-day operation saw 60 officers, supported by Leeds City Council staff, health agencies, Hope for Justice and the Salvation Army, visit 25 addresses to offer help to families identified as being potential victims.

They took three men, four women and 19 children to a reception centre where they were given access to the services of the relevant agencies.

A total of 17 of those people have been placed into the National Referral Mechanism, which identifies victims of human trafficking and ensures they receive protection and support.

Another 33 people found during the operation “preferred not to cooperate and remained where they were”, police said.

The eight people arrested have been bailed, and enquiries are continuing to trace others believed to be involved.

'Trafficking Victims' Rescued By Leeds Police