Arrests made in slavery operation

16 May 2018

A cross agency operation has resulted in three arrests on suspicion of modern slavery offences in Horley.

More than 30 Surrey officers were involved in the arrests which saw two men and a woman detained as part of Operation Memory.

They were also arrested on suspicion of fraud offences and being in possession of a stolen car, caravan and a dog.

The trio have been interviewed and released under investigation and the vehicles seized.

Tandridge District Council, Surrey Trading Standards and Surrey Fire and Rescue Service were all involved in the operation which focused on exploitation through slavery, poor living conditions or low and non-existent wages.

Neighbourhood Detective Inspector Jackie Elkins told GetSurrey.co.uk that the investigation remains ongoing.

“The warrant was carried out following information that occupants were involved in criminal activity and that other occupants at the address were being exploited.

“Our investigation remains ongoing to establish whether any modern slavery offences have taken place.

“The operation resulted in three arrests, the seizure of suspected stolen vehicles, and we were able to reunite a dog, also believed to have been stolen, with its owner.

“Modern slavery is a threat and is an offence that is happening around us in our local communities,” she added.

“This operation proves that protecting the vulnerable and exploited victims of this horrific crime and pursuing those who commit it is something we take extremely seriously.”

For more see https://www.getsurrey.co.uk/news/surrey-news/three-people-horley-arrested-alleged-14663448