Sex trafficking arrests in Ballymena – Photo 1 of 1

Four people have been arrested in Northern Ireland as part of an operation against human trafficking.

Four searches were carried out, three in Ballymena and one in Omagh, as part of the operation, which is targeting the activities of an organised crime group suspected of trafficking Romanian women for sexual exploitation.

Three men aged 27, 31 and 52 and a 21-year-old woman have been arrested on suspicion of human trafficking for sexual exploitation, controlling prostitution for personal gain, keeping a brothel and money laundering.

All four are currently still in custody.

Detective Inspector Rachel Miskelly said: “We believe the organised crime group has enticed Romanian women to travel to Northern Ireland with the false promise of a better quality of life. The shocking reality is that the women have been forced into prostitution and exploited upon arrival.

“So far in this operation we have identified and provided protection to one female victim, but we believe there are more victims to be identified.”

“Organised crime groups involved in human trafficking typically seek to identify, manipulate and exploit individuals. They prey on people who are vulnerable in some way.

“Victims’ hopes for a better life are abruptly destroyed and instead they are treated horribly. Innocent people are treated like commodities.

“They are forced to perform sexual acts, with the money earned going straight into the pockets of criminals.”

Detective Inspector Miskelly said the brothels linked to the group were in Ballymena and Omagh. However, it is believed victims were transported to various locations in Northern Ireland for the purpose of sexual exploitation.

“Unfortunately, we believe there are more victims to be identified and we continue our investigation,” she added.

Anyone with information is asked to come forward.

She added: “We will continue to do everything we can to tackle human trafficking for sexual exploitation, but we need your support.

“This very real problem could be happening in your street or neighbourhood and I urge you, if you have any information or concerns that someone is being exploited or controlled, to contact us.

“If you are or have been a victim, please speak to us. We have a dedicated team who want to help you and I promise you that you will be treated with the utmost respect and sensitivity.

“For emergencies call 999; for non-emergency calls 101; or call the Modern Slavery Helpline on 0800 012 1700.”