Staffordshire Police have raised two businesses in Stoke-on-Trent as part of a multi-agency investigation into suspected modern slavery and human trafficking.

The operation involved officers and staff from various police teams and other partners, including Stoke-on Trent City Council trading standards, the Home Office Immigration Enforcement Service and the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA).

As a result of community intelligence and evidence gathering, police were able to carry out the visits on Tuesday 30 July, resulting in a significant number of digital items and identity/financial documents being seized.

Detective Constable Jay Franklin, from the modern slavery and human trafficking unit, said: "Possible victims of trafficking were safeguarded whilst officers undertook searches of both premises. We offered them advice and referrals to specialist help and support.

"Unfortunately, slavery is not a crime of the past; it is happening across our communities now. We will continue to proactively seek out offenders, keep people safe and support victims being exploited for financial gain."

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READ MORE: Stoke-on-Trent City Council on course for £11 million overspend

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