Appeal for witnesses in Cumbria operation

The Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA) is appealing for witnesses who have not yet come forward in its investigation into the alleged exploitation of a vulnerable worker over 40 years in Cumbria.

GLAA officers removed the 58-year-old British man from a six foot shed he was believed to have been living in for the last four decades in October this year.

A 79-year-old British man was arrested on suspicion of modern slavery offences at the fixed residential site north of Carlisle on the same day.

He has been interviewed further and released under investigation.

GLAA Senior Investigating Officer Martin Plimmer said: "The potential victim we identified is still receiving specialist care. He is being given every assistance to help him on what will be a long road to recovery. We would ask that we are allowed to continue this difficult process free from interference and disruption.

"Detailed and specific lines of enquiry are ongoing but we believe there may be some key witnesses out there who have not yet spoken to us. I'd like to appeal directly to those reading this who have any information which can help us in our investigation to please get in touch.

"Please be reassured that you will be spoken to in full confidence. Your evidence, however small or insignificant you think it is, could be crucial. Modern slavery cases are extremely complex by their very nature and we are committed to ensuring all avenues of investigation are fully and objectively explored.”

"If you have any information, please call our intelligence team on 0800 4320804 or email intelligence@gla.gov.uk

NOTE TO EDITORS: The GLAA will not be offering any further interviews in relation to the operation at this stage. More details will be released as and when appropriate.