The National Crime Agency (NCA) announced last week that modern slavery and human trafficking in the UK is far more prevalent than previously thought. 

A growing body of evidence resulting from an increase in law enforcement activity has also indicated that the threat is expanding, with more than 300 live policing operations currently targeting modern slavery.  Additionally, the number of people being referred into the National Referral Mechanism as potential victims of modern slavery continues to rise. 

More than a dozen of the highest risk operations targeting organised crime groups are being led by the NCA, which resulted in: 

  • The arrest of three men in north east England with suspected links to a Romanian organised crime group using the internet to advertise the services of victims trafficked for sexual exploitation, and then forcing them to launder the proceeds through criminally controlled bank accounts.
  • The rescue and safeguarding of five Slovakian men encountered during an investigation into allegations of forced labour in the Bristol area. A man and woman with links to a car wash business were arrested, and are suspected of being part of a wider organised crime group.
  • A surge in operational activity focusing on labour and sexual exploitation co-ordinated by the NCA through May and June led to 111 arrests in the UK and about 130 victims found. 

As a result of this upsurge in modern slavery, the NCA has started a campaign explaining how the public can help to counter it. Over the next six months it will highlight the signs of modern slavery which people may come across in their everyday lives, and encourage them to report it. The agency therefore urges anyone with suspicions to call their local police force on 101 or the Modern Slavery Helpline which is 08000 121 700. 

The term “modern slavery” subsumes the offences of human trafficking, slavery, servitude and forced or compulsory labour, including sexual or criminal exploitation. All UK-based corporations with a global turnover of over £36 million must publish a “slavery and human trafficking statement” every financial year requiring them to disclose what steps they are taking to eliminate slavery and trafficking within their own business as well as their supply chain. 

Neil Todd of Thompsons Solicitors said ““Modern slavery is an appalling crime and it is shocking that despite being outlawed in virtually every country, it remains prevalent. However as the Guardian recently reported modern slavery is criminal industry on par with arms and drug trafficking with profits estimated at £150 billion a year. Under-regulated labour markets are one reason it continues to prosper and it vital that everything possible is done to wipe out this abhorrent scourge on society”