Police operation to identifying victims of forced labour in region

North Wales Police in partnership with Home Office Immigration officers have conducted an operation this week aimed at individuals who may have been exploiting workers in the ‘domestic labour’ market.

This week’s activity also combines raising awareness to break down the traditional views of slavery, offer support to victims and “make Wales hostile to perpetrators of Modern Slavery.” say police.

“This week’s action was aimed at identifying potential victims of forced domestic labour and where appropriate taking steps to ensure their safety and where appropriate prosecuting offenders,” said Detective Inspector Gary Kelly at North Wales police.

“Forced labour is very often over-looked in terms of modern slavery but research and experience tells us it is one of the most prevalent aspects of Slavery. It can often take years for victims to either disclose their abuse or break away from their abusers.”

“This week our officers have conducted a number of visits to locations across the force area to ensure that oversees domestic workers were being employed legally, were being treated with respect and care and were not being exploited.” DI Kelly added.

Frontline officers with North Wales Police have been trained to identify the warning signs of those most vulnerable but say help from communities in identify victims and their abusers is vital.

Many victims will be unaware of their abuse and the crime often remains hidden from sight.