Fresh crackdown on human traffickers

Justice bosses have new powers to tackle gangs responsible for human trafficking and exploitation.

Police and the courts can use Trafficking and Exploitation Prevention Orders (TEPOs) to restrict those with convictions from employing staff, working with children/vulnerable people or travelling to certain countries for a minimum of five years.

Breaching the orders will be a criminal offence.

Justice Secretary Michael Matheson said:“These new powers for the police and courts will help to further protect the public from harm.

“We have already strengthened the law, creating a specific offence of human trafficking for the first time. Now we are making sure that action can be taken when a person poses a continuing risk.

“We are working hard to eradicate trafficking and exploitation in Scotland and providing high quality support for victims who have suffered physical and psychological harm.”

Lord Advocate, James Wolffe QC said: We welcome the introduction of Trafficking and Exploitation Prevention Orders. They will give courts across Scotland an additional tool to combat the global trade in human beings. Prosecutors will apply to the court for prevention orders in appropriate cases and will prosecute those who breach such orders.”

Detective Superintendent Stuart Houston, of the Police Scotland human trafficking unit, added:“We continue to target those who control, abuse and exploit others.

“By working collaboratively with partners, such as the Scottish Government, to ensure Scotland is a hostile environment for this sickening trade.”