3 Arrested in Greater Manchester Police as part of a major modern slavery operation. GMP targeted forced labor in the region. The coordinated raid took place on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at an abattoir on Higher Bury Street in Stockport. A second warrant executed at a residential property on Merlin Road in Blackburn, Lancashire. In total, 3 Arrested in Greater Manchester Police during this significant operation.
Arrests and Investigation by Greater Manchester Police (GMP)
3 Arrested in Greater Manchester Police Modern Slavery Operation
A man and a woman, both in their thirties, were arrested on suspicion of human trafficking and offenses related to slavery, servitude, and forced labor under The Modern Slavery Act. Another man, also in his thirties, attempted to flee the abattoir during the raid, hiding on a nearby rooftop before detainment. Police later identified him as an Albanian national living and working illegally in the UK. He is now in the custody of Immigration Enforcement.
GMP launched the operation following allegations of a former worker at the abattoir who was a subject to modern slavery. According to initial disclosures, the victim had to live on-site and work excessively long hours under threats and coercion to repay debts related to a sponsorship visa and travel expenses.
In a broader context, the operation where 3 Arrested in Greater Manchester Police reflects the ongoing commitment to tackling modern slavery across the region.
The success of this operation with 3 Arrested in Greater Manchester Police demonstrates the effectiveness of collaborative efforts among various agencies.
Such thorough investigations, like the one resulting in 3 Arrested in Greater Manchester Police, are vital in uncovering hidden exploitation.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) detectives swiftly gathered intelligence, coordinated with national agencies—including the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA) and Home Office Border Security and Asylum—and mobilized a multi-agency response. The Salvation Army and crime and justice charities also assisted in providing immediate support to potential victims.
During the late-night raid, officers interviewed 30 employees on-site to assess their working conditions and investigate any further exploitation. They seized the mobile phones, computers, and documents as evidence. Thankfully, no additional claims of modern slavery were reported.
Every report made contributes to efforts like those leading to 3 Arrested in Greater Manchester Police and the protection of vulnerable individuals.
Detective Sergeant Lee Attenborough of GMP’s Stockport Challenger Team stated:
Public involvement is crucial, as seen with 3 Arrested in Greater Manchester Police, to combat and prevent modern slavery effectively.
“We hope this robust and coordinated action reassures the public of our commitment to tackling modern slavery. We spoke with every employee at the abattoir, and while no further cases of exploitation were identified, we made sure all workers knew how to access support.”
DS Attenborough also highlighted GMP’s recent successes in fighting modern slavery, noting that in 2024, the force supported more victims than ever before, resulting in an increase in charges and convictions.
Support for Victims and Calls for Public Action
Debi Lloyd, Head of UK Counter Trafficking Operations at Justice and Care, praised the joint effort:
As emphasized by officials, cases like 3 Arrested in Greater Manchester Police show the importance of community engagement in tackling this issue.
“Our Victim Navigators worked alongside police and other agencies during the operation. We are now supporting the survivor in this case and commend their bravery in coming forward.”
The public must stay vigilant in light of recent events, including 3 Arrested in Greater Manchester Police, to ensure safety in our communities.
The Salvation Army, which provides specialist support for modern slavery survivors, was also present at the site. Major Kathy Betteridge, Director of Anti-Trafficking and Modern Slavery, emphasized the importance of victims receiving immediate and long-term assistance.
Authorities continue to urge the public to report any concerns regarding modern slavery. Reports can be made anonymously via Crimestoppers or the Modern Slavery Helpline on 0800 0121 700.
Officials Condemn Modern Slavery
Minister for Border Security and Asylum, Dame Angela Eagle MP, reinforced the government’s stance:
“Modern slavery is an abhorrent crime. We are increasing enforcement efforts across the country to dismantle these networks and bring offenders to justice.”
Deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester, Kate Green, also condemned the exploitation, urging businesses to scrutinize their supply chains for potential links to forced labor.
As the investigation unfolds, the case of 3 Arrested in Greater Manchester Police highlights the urgent need for community awareness and vigilance.
To aid in the fight against modern slavery, remember the case of 3 Arrested in Greater Manchester Police and report any suspicious activities.
“Modern slavery has no place in our communities. Greater Manchester is committed to rooting it out wherever it occurs.”
Ongoing Investigations
The three arrested individuals remain in custody as investigations continue. GMP encourages anyone with information about human trafficking or labor exploitation to come forward. It also assure thatthey will take reports seriously and that support is available for victims.
For more details or to report concerns, visit www.gmp.police.uk or contact the Modern Slavery Helpline at 0800 0121 700.