Teen among three arrested in human trafficking and modern slavery raid

Three people have been arrested in a police raid targeting human trafficking and modern slavery in Fife.

Officers led a multi-agency operation in Kirkcaldy on Thursday alongside representatives from HMRC, the Department for Work and Pensions, the Gangmasters and Labour Exploitation Authority and Justice and Care.

Acting on intelligence received, police attended a business in the area and an 18-year-old man was arrested in connection with trafficking and slavery offences before being released pending further investigations.

A 52-year-old woman and 46-year-old man were also arrested in connection with immigration offences.

Enquiries into the incidents are ongoing.

Detective inspector Scott Wilson, from Dumfries CID, said: “Human trafficking and modern slavery are happening in our communities and this operation demonstrates our commitment to tackling this issue.

“We work closely with our partners to identify situations where this criminality is taking place and provide appropriate support to victims. However we cannot do this alone, and it is important that we increase awareness of the warning signs so that reporting can increase.

“Signs that someone could be being exploited at work can include being paid no legal wage and having little or no money, living in poor conditions and having their time on and off duty controlled by their employers.

“If you suspect modern slavery is happening in your community it is vital that you report this and enable us to protect victims and take action against those responsible for this exploitation.”

Anyone with information can contact Police Scotland on 101.