Romanian man arrested in Coventry modern slavery probe

A Romanian man has been arrested by officers from the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA) on suspicion of modern slavery and human trafficking offences in Coventry.

The 55-year-old suspect was arrested after the GLAA received intelligence indicating that he had been trafficking and exploiting workers.

He has been released under investigation pending further enquiries.

GLAA investigators were joined by neighbourhood officers from West Midlands Police at an address north of the city centre on the morning of Tuesday 20 November.

Searches of the property were also made by the GLAA, with evidence taken away to be analysed.

The investigation is ongoing to establish if there are any potential modern slavery victims in need of support.

GLAA Senior Investigating Officer Martin Plimmer said: “We would urge anyone who believes someone is the victim of modern slavery and human trafficking to get in touch with us.

“It’s crucially important members of the public know what to look out for. Are significant numbers of people living in the same accommodation? Do they act as if they are being controlled? Do they get collected and driven to their place of work for example? These are just some of the signs which could indicate that people are being exploited.”

Anyone who believes someone is being exploited or has been trafficked for work in the UK should call the GLAA’s intelligence team on 0800 4320804 or email intelligence@gla.gov.uk