WILTSHIRE Police have confirmed that three men have been released on bail after a warrant carried out at a site in Semington revealed that eight Romanian men had potentially been exposed to modern slavery.
The warrant, carried out at around 5.30am on Monday 20th April, discovered the “cold, hungry and terrified” Romanians at a travellers’ site near Melksham.
Three men aged 28, 33, and 37 were then taken into custody at Melksham Police Station on suspicion of offences relating to human trafficking. They have since been released on bail.
Wiltshire Police are appealing for information about local firms Newstone Barrett Driveways, Drivescape Ltd or Signature Driveways in connection with the arrests. The eight Romanian men are now receiving medical care and support at a place of safety.
“Maggie Rae, corporate director at Wiltshire Council said, “The men were found in very cramped conditions and it was clear they were very cold, hungry and terrified with no access to any washing facilities.
“Our paramount concern at the council is their welfare and making sure they feel safe, warm and get hot meals and get medical care. The men seemed really pleased just to get something simple like milk in their cup of tea.
“Alongside our partners, we’ll continue to work with the police as the investigation continues and be on hand to support those rescued from the site.”
Major Anne Read, The Salvation Army’s anti-trafficking response co-ordinator said, “The Salvation Army is working with Wiltshire Police to rescue and support potential victims of modern slavery. It is vital that victims receive immediate access to specialised support. Our team has been working to assess the needs of the victims and ensure that they have access to accommodation and support at safe houses if needed.
“The Salvation Army operates a Government contract to provide vital help and support to adult victims of this pitiless exploitation which gives them the very best chance to try and recover through the comprehensive specialised services we can offer working with our partners.”
A criminal investigation is ongoing, while the men continue to be kept safe as part of a multi-agency operation involving Wiltshire Police, Wiltshire Council, British Red Cross, NHS England, The Salvation Army and UKHTC (UK Human Trafficking Centre).
Superintendent Sean Memory said, ‘Human trafficking is a form of modern slavery and offenders prey on vulnerable people. The victims are often kept in very poor conditions and live in fear and subject to intimidation and violence. It is a complete violation of basic human rights.
“Wiltshire Police has a dedicated police team and operation specifically to tackle the issue of human trafficking in Wiltshire. This work is intelligence-led and we need the local communities to be vigilant and report any concerns so we can put a stop to this inhumane practice.
“We would like to hear from anyone who has recently had their driveway repaired or re-surfaced by any company using Eastern European workers. We would also like to hear from anyone who has information regarding Newstone Barrett Driveways, Drivescape Ltd or Signature Driveways.
“I would like to reassure the community that we simply wish to speak to anyone who has had work carried out by these companies as they may have information to assist our investigation, I can confirm that customers are not at any risk of prosecution.”