Seven arrested in slavery investigation

Seven people have been arrested, and £40,000 of cash and several expensive cars have been seized, following an investigation into human trafficking and slavery in Bristol on Friday 11 March.>Five of the seven men were arrested at their homes in South Bristol, with a further two detained at Gatwick Airport. >They are currently in police custody being questioned in relation to human trafficking, money laundering, cannabis production and document offences.

Searches have been carried out at seven homes, as well as two car washes in South Bristol and Temptations nightclub in Old Market, Bristol.

Avon & Somerset officers worked with the Home Office Immigration Enforcement, the National Crime Agency and National Charities on the operation. >Other partners from the Anti-slavery partnership have also worked with the police force in preparing for the day of action.

The leader of the operation says they're now working with victims of the trade.

The force are urging the public to spot the signs of modern slavery and report anything suspicious to them.