Suffolk Police operation targets modern slavery and illegal goods

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 26 Oct, 05:01 · Archive

A multi-agency operation in Ipswich uncovered thousands of illegal cigarettes and vapes, identified a potential exploitation victim, and arrested two people.

A multi-agency operation led by Suffolk Police across Ipswich last week seized thousands of illicit cigarettes and vapes as part of efforts to tackle modern slavery, organised crime and the sale of illegal goods. Two people were arrested by Immigration Enforcement and released on bail pending further enquiries. A potential victim of exploitation was identified during the operation.

Officers from Immigration Enforcement, Trading Standards, specialist detection dog teams and financial investigators participated in coordinated raids on multiple businesses including a car wash. Immigration officials checked workers' identification documents and employment status. Officers examined suspected living areas at one business, which appeared cold and cluttered, raising concerns about working and living conditions.

John French, Suffolk Constabulary's modern slavery vulnerability adviser, said protecting potential victims was the priority during such operations. 'If we go in all guns blazing, we're going to miss the victims,' he said. 'The victim-focused approach is all connected to our safeguarding responsibilities.' The operation demonstrated how coordinating multiple agencies could tackle interconnected issues of labour exploitation and organised crime simultaneously.

How it is being reported

• Inside a police crackdown uncovering modern slavery and illegal tobaccoAn Ipswich operation uncovered thousands of illegal cigarettes and vapes in multi-agency raids involving Suffolk police, immigration and trading standards.Ipswich Star · 26 Oct, 04:30
• Inside a police crackdown uncovering modern slavery and illegal tobaccoAn Ipswich operation uncovered thousands of illegal cigarettes and vapes in multi-agency raids involving Suffolk police, immigration and trading standards.East Anglian Daily Times · 26 Oct, 04:30

In this story: Suffolk Police · Immigration Enforcement · Suffolk Trading Standards · Ipswich · John French

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