WL human trafficking shocker

Raids discover teenage victim at town business

A teenage girl suspected of being trafficked to Scotland has been found at a business property in Livingston.

It comes as police raided companies across West Lothian as part of a human trafficking crackdown last week.

Restaurants, care homes and car washes were targeted across the county as officers searched 89 facilities in Lothian and the Borders on Wednesday, October 19.

Cops also detained a man suspected of immigration offences at an address in Bathgate during the operation while the girl is now under the care of social work services.

Detective Inspector Paul Batten said: “Human trafficking is very much hidden but is happening within the Lothians and Scottish Borders.

“Individuals often don’t see themselves as victims which is why we wi l l proactively seek to identify them through visits like Wednesday’s.

“The day of action focused on awareness raising. We spoke to business owners and managers, urging them to think about the people they employ and serve, and encouraging anyone with concerns about exploitation in any form to report it.

“We are determined to improve the intelligence picture in order to gain a better understanding of trafficking in Scotland and the organised crime groups who are involved, and the work we have carried out will inform the next steps we take.”

Officers from across the country took part in the national day of action to highlight the exploitation of vulnerable people, how to report concerns and the support available to victims.

West Lothian- based officers were supported by Police Scotland’s specialist National Human Traffic Unit during the operation, as well as other partner agencies.

DI Batten added: “We worked closely with the Immigration Service.

“Their expertise is vital in being able to provide support and help to anyone who we find has been trafficked into the country for the purposes of labour or sexual exploitation, and take appropriate action.

“Trafficking is unacceptable.

“We will target those who control, abuse and exploit others by working collaboratively with partners to ensure that Scotland is a hostile environment to this sickening trade.”

If you have concerns about human trafficking or any other crime in your area you can contact Police Scotland on 101 or report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800555111.