Two ‘slaves’ are rescued as part of international investigation into trafficking

WOMEN THOUGHT to have been trafficked as slaves have been rescued from a house in Huddersfield, police have said.

Raids were carried out at 6am on Wednesday at the property as part of a wider international human trafficking investigation.

Two women were rescued, while officers arrested a man and woman in connection with the suspected offences.

West Yorkshire Police said similar raids were also carried out at properties in Austria and Romania which were joint-led by the force’s Programme Precision Human Trafficking and Modern

Slavery Team. The investigation is also being supported by the National Crime Agency (NCA), which deals with serious, organised crime including the trafficking of drugs, weapons and humans as part of modern slavery crimes, as well as the United Kingdom Central Authority (UKCA) and the charity, Hope for Justice.

The two women rescued in the dawn raids are currently being supported by Hope for Justice which described modern slavery as a “despicable crime”.

Steve Howard, Hubs Team Manager at the charity, said:

“Modern slavery, in all its forms, is a despicable crime.

“We are privileged to have been involved in this operation, and ultimately, in the rescue of these two women.

“Our multi-skilled team has been able to assist with translation, as well as providing independent support and advice for the victims. We will be working to ensure their ongoing care and safety in the days, weeks and months ahead.”

A 38-year-old man and 42-year-old woman who were arrested on suspicion of offences under the Modern

Slavery Act have been bailed. Detective Superintendent Carl Galvin said: “Modern slavery (also known as human trafficking) is a horrible crime that trades in human misery.

“There is no place for it in 21st century Britain, or anywhere else.”