Six Men Charged In Human Trafficking Investigation

Detective Superintendent Steve Cullen has confirmed that six men will this morning (Thursday 11 March) be appearing at Telford Magistrates Court charged with a number of human trafficking offences.

The charges have been brought as part of an ongoing, long-term operation into human trafficking and sexual offences that is being conducted in conjunction with a number of partner agencies.

Detective Superintendent Cullen, who is leading this investigation, said: "At this stage I am unable to go into specific details about this ongoing investigation although it is well known that we have been working on it for some time in conjunction with our partners at Telford & Wrekin Council, the local Primary Care Trust, the United Kingdom Human Trafficking Centre and SOCA's Vulnerable Persons Team.

"We are pleased with how the investigation has gone so far but I'd like to reassure local people that a significant number of officers will continue to work on this case. I'd also like to take this opportunity to thank all those people that have come forward with information to assist our investigation so far.

"Wellington is a relatively small town and, although the criminal activity only involves a small amount of people, it does appear that much of what we are investigating is centred in that part of Telford. With that in mind, I'd like to ask local people to come forward with any information that they feel could assist with our investigation so that we can continue with our work to tackle this criminality.

"Please remember that anyone who believes they may be able to help our investigation, or who has concerns about criminal behaviour of any sort in their area, can report those concerns by calling West Mercia Police on 0300 333 3000. Alternatively, please be aware that Crimestoppers can also be called anonymously on 0800 555 111 if you have information you'd like to pass on without identifying yourself."

• A woman arrested on Tuesday at the same time as the six men has been released on police bail.

Issued: Thursday 11 March 2010