Four arrested in Wiltshire operation targeting modern slavery and exploitation

Four people have been arrested following a week-long police operation targeting modern slavery, human trafficking and exploitation across Wiltshire.

The operation, known as Operation Strong, saw officers work alongside partner agencies to identify vulnerable individuals, investigate suspected exploitation and take action against those believed to be responsible.

Two people were arrested on suspicion of human trafficking and controlling prostitution for gain. Both have since been released on bail while further enquiries continue.

A further two people were arrested for immigration offences and have also been released on bail.

Coordinated by Wiltshire Police's Missing and Exploitation Unit, Operation Strong took place between October 19 and 23, with activity carried out across Swindon and the wider county.

This phase of the operation placed particular emphasis on adult sexual exploitation, with officers focusing on identifying vulnerable people and disrupting suspected criminal activity.

Detective Sergeant Kara Peet said modern slavery and human trafficking destroy lives, with vulnerable people frequently exploited for financial gain.

She said controlling prostitution for gain was a serious offence and stressed that police priorities included identifying and safeguarding people at risk while pursuing those responsible.

Detective Sergeant Peet added that police remained committed to preventing exploitation, protecting victims and bringing offenders to justice.

She also encouraged members of the public to report concerns about possible exploitation in their communities, explaining that even small pieces of information could help protect vulnerable people.

During the five-day operation, officers carried out five visits to vulnerable individuals and made five safeguarding referrals.

A total of 73 intelligence reports were submitted, alongside 20 recorded disruptions linked to the operation.

Police also seized £1,000 in cash, multiple mobile phones and a small quantity of cannabis.

Officers conducted 14 hotspot patrols and carried out two Project Vigilant deployments in Swindon, including in the Broadgreen area and around the Designer Outlet.

Project Vigilant involves intelligence-led policing activity aimed at identifying potential sexual predators, preventing violence against women and girls and safeguarding vulnerable individuals.

Wiltshire Police and its partner agencies also worked to identify people who may be at risk and connect them with appropriate support services.

Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson said the operation had created important opportunities to safeguard vulnerable people and provide support where needed.

He highlighted the importance of cooperation between policing teams and partner organisations when dealing with crimes that are often complex and difficult to identify.

Modern slavery and human trafficking can take many forms, including forced sexual labour, criminal exploitation, domestic servitude and labour exploitation.

Victims may be controlled through violence, threats, coercion or financial dependence, and can sometimes remain hidden in plain sight within local communities.

Wiltshire Police works with organisations including The Nelson Trust and local safeguarding groups to provide specialist assistance to vulnerable people.

A multi-agency panel also meets regularly to discuss safeguarding arrangements and support for vulnerable women who may be at risk of exploitation.

Police are encouraging anyone who suspects that someone may be experiencing modern slavery, human trafficking or exploitation to come forward.

Information can be reported to Wiltshire Police by calling 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Officers say reporting concerns could help identify vulnerable people, prevent further exploitation and bring those responsible to justice.