Police target suspected exploitation in Lowestoft and Beccles

On Wednesday 15 May, officers from the Lowestoft Community Policing Team and West Town Centre Team partnered with Suffolk Trading Standards and Home Office Immigration Enforcement Officers in a coordinated operation, targeting cash-intensive businesses suspected of involvement in exploitation and modern slavery.

The operation took place in Lowestoft and Beccles and focussed on businesses that handle high volumes of cash transactions which can sometimes be associated with wider organised crime groups.

Police activity focussed on identifying vulnerable people who may be victims of exploitation. Organised crime groups are known to exploit vulnerable people, including migrants who may be brought into the UK illegally and forced to work in poor conditions. Victims are often lured with the promise of legitimate employment but are instead forced to work in inhumane conditions, under the threat of violence and fear of deportation.

Suffolk Constabulary’s Modern Slavery Vulnerability Advisor John French said: “Identifying victims of exploitation sits at the heart of what we do. Fear, coercion and manipulation prevent them from speaking to us, and many will have been coached on what to say when approached by officers.

“We often rely on translation services and can spend a considerable time speaking with individuals to reassure them they we are there to help. Our priority is to identify victims, ensure their welfare and provide them with access to support services that they may need, whether that is safe accommodation, legal help or health services.

“It may take multiple visits before individuals feel able to disclose exploitation. Sadly, many are moved on by criminal groups before that can happen, which is why community support is so important.

“We urge members of the public to report anything suspicious. Any information shared is vital in helping us protect vulnerable people, identify victims and disrupt those who seek to profit from exploitation.”

Seven businesses were visited during the operation, during which Trading Standards officers seized a large quantity of illicit cigarettes and hand-rolling tobacco.

John French added: “Illicit and counterfeit goods are often concealed in modified compartments, behind tills or within walls. On this occasion, two highly sophisticated hides were uncovered by two specially trained sniffer dogs.

“These products are dangerous because they lack proper safety regulation and pose higher health risks to the public than the legitimate products.”

Two men were arrested for immigration offences and Civil Penalty Referral Notices for illegal working were also issued to two businesses. This means that employers can be fined up to £45,000 per person found to be working illegally; this rises to £60,000 for repeat offences.  For one of the businesses involved, this was not a first offence.  

For more information about the different forms of Modern Slavery and how to report it visit https://www.suffolk.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/ms/modern-slavery/

If you suspect exploitation, please report your concerns to the UK Modern Slavery & Exploitation helpline on 08000 121 700. It is free, confidential, open 24 hours and available in 200 languages. Alternatively report online via https://www.modernslaveryhelpline.org/report.

Visit www.unseenuk.org for more information about the common signs of exploitation and how to report it.

If someone is in immediate danger please call police on 999