Man bailed following unlicensed Gangmaster arrest
30th October 2024
An investigation is underway after a man was arrested following reports he was acting as an unlicensed Gangmaster.
The Gangmasters and Labour and Abuse Authority (GLAA) carried out the arrest of a 54-year-old man in the Watton area of Norfolk on Thursday (24 October 2024), following reports that a man was forcing more than 70 men and women to work excessive hours, and withholding their wages.
They are all being supported by specially trained navigators from Justice and Care.
The man was also arrested for money laundering offences and Section 1 of the Modern Slavery Act for the involvement in forced or compulsory labour.
After being questioned by the GLAA and Norfolk Police, he was bailed as enquiries continue.
GLAA Investigations Manager Nev Bradbury said: “We received allegations that a number of people have been working excessive hours and not being paid adequately for their time.
“Exploiting vulnerable people for work is a crime we do not tolerate, and as an organisation we work hard to stop worker exploitation.
“I’d like to thank Norfolk Police for their assistance during these arrests and encourage anyone who suspects that workers are being exploited for their labour to contact us.
“You can contact the GLAA on 0800 432 0804. Please provide us with as much information as possible to enable us to investigate your concerns. You can also email us on contact@gla.gov.uk."