Suspect charged with human trafficking offence after raid

An investigation was launched following a report of a person being potentially exploited and forced to sell drugs.

Jenness Mitchell

15th Jul 2021

A man has been charged in connection with a human trafficking offence.

Police launched an investigation at the beginning of July following a report of a person in East Lothian being potentially exploited and forced to sell drugs.

Enforcement work was then carried out at an address in Galashiels, Scottish Borders, on Wednesday.

A 33-year-old man was arrested and charged in connection with the incident and is due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Thursday.

Police said a small amount of Class B drugs and a three-figure sum of cash were recovered from the property.

The force added that the alleged victim “continues to receive support by appropriate partner agencies”.

Detective inspector Laura Dickson said: “This highlights our continued commitment to work with partners to pursue those involved in this type of criminality.

“Our aim is to safeguard individuals who may be at risk of exploitation and significant harm from drug dealers who target the most vulnerable in our communities, taking over their homes and forcing them to deal drugs.

“We all have an obligation to help protect each other and rely on information about suspicious behaviour to identify victims as well as criminal activity which may be happening in our local areas.

“If you have concerns, or information, please report this to us on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 so we can investigate and take action.”