Task force celebrates success in tackling modern slavery

76 people have been arrested in the Humber region over the past year for modern slavery and human trafficking offences.

Operation Wilberforce, a task force launched to tackle the growing problem, has already launched more than 150 investigations and helped bring 120 victims to safety.

It is made up of a dedicated team who will provide training, support and guidance to colleagues within the police force.

Humberside Police has people to be vigilant to try & help spot the signs of such offences.

“We’ve made significant progress during our first year, providing rehabilitation and support to victims of these shocking crimes, giving them the tools to make a meaningful recovery and lead normal lives,” said Detective Chief Inspector Christine Calvert.

“There’s always more progress to be made, and we’re committed to continuing our fight against these crimes.

“Sadly, modern slavery is still all too often hidden in plain sight, in shops, factories, houses – all around us.

“Our campaign in 2020 sought to highlight that ‘slavery’ isn’t always what you might think it is – it can be happening in seemingly normal, everyday situations, for example, someone washing your car at a hand car wash, or someone providing cut-rate beauty treatments.”

Humberside Police have asked people to look out for tell-tale signs.

These include people who might be suffering from physical or psychological abuse, appearing withdrawn and looking dishevelled, avoiding eye contact and seeming reluctant to have a conversation, or who appear unfamiliar with the neighbourhood in which they are living and working.

Victims might also be forced to work through mental or physical threat, or owned or controlled by an ’employer’, usually through mental or physical abuse, or the threat of abuse.

Anyone with information regarding suspected cases of modern day slavery or human trafficking is asked to call the non-emergency number 101, or 999 in an emergency.

Reporting your concerns will ensure the most vulnerable people in our community can be safeguarded.