Man accused of being unlicensed gangmaster

A 39 year old man has been arrested on suspicion of acting as an unlicensed gangmaster after allegations overseas workers were charged ‘fees’ to find them jobs.

Investigators from the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA) – supported by officers from West Mercia Police – arrested the Bulgarian national at an address in Evesham, Worcestershire, earlier today (20 March).

He was taken to a police station in Worcester for questioning while searches were made at his address.

The GLAA acted following allegations other Bulgarian nationals were charged £100 each to find them jobs in the food processing industry.

A spokesman for the GLAA said: “Allegation of this nature, especially where vulnerable workers are targeted, are treated extremely seriously by the GLAA.”

To report concerns about labour exploitation or slavery, contact the GLAA on 0800 0432 0804 or ring the Modern Slavery Helpline on 08000 121 700