Police in Milford Haven have this morning executed warrants at addresses in Milford Haven linked to modern day slavery.

This is a multi-agency operation between Dyfed-Powys Police, the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority, and Pembrokeshire County Council.

As a result of the warrants, five people have been arrested on suspicion of gangmaster offences, and have been conveyed to police custody.

Detective Chief Inspector Ross Evans said: “The victims are our priority and those affected are being fully supported.

“As well as being part of the Dyfed-Powys Police action day #TotalFocus, where efforts are being concentrated on issues relating to protecting the most vulnerable in our society, it is also Anti-slavery awareness week. Throughout the week, as well as raising awareness, we are identifying offences and supporting victims.

“In reality modern slavery can happen anywhere and there is no typical victim of slavery. Victims may be exposed to more than one form of abuse, but the focus today is gangmaster offences.”

Police are asking the public for information and help, but don’t want people to act on any suspicions themselves. Please share any information with the police so they can put measures in place to gather information and find out if modern day slavery is taking place.

There are a number of signs that can help identify victims of trafficking:

Not having a passport or other means of identification;

They are withdrawn and refuse to talk to, or appear afraid to talk, a person in authority;

They are unable, or reluctant to give details of accommodation or other personal details;

They work in various locations;

Having limited freedom of movement;

They perform excessive housework chores and rarely leave the residence;

They have low or no salary or are permanently deprived of a large part of their earnings by another person;

Being escorted whenever they go and or return from work and other activities;

They work long hours or have few/no days off;

They sleep where they work;

They have no privacy, sleeping in shared and over-crowded spaces;

Security measures are in place to keep them at the work place, for example locked doors and windows

They are not dressed properly for the work they do, for example they don’t have protective equipment or warm clothes.

If you suspect slavery is happening near you please report it to police on 101, in an emergency always dial 999 or call the Modern Slavery Helpline on 0800 012 1700.