Four arrests by PSNI over suspected trafficking of Romanian women

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

Four searches were carried out on Tuesday, three in Ballymena and one in Omagh, by detectives from the Organised Crime Squad, supported by officers from the Tactical Support Group (TSG).

The operation targets the activities of an organised criminal gang suspected of trafficking Romanian women for sexual exploitation.

According to the Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Unit of the Northern Ireland Police Service, one female victim has been identified and offered protection.

Detective Inspector Rachel Miskelly said: “Three men, aged 27, 31 and 52, and a 21-year-old woman, were each arrested on suspicion of trafficking for sexual exploitation, controlling prostitution for personal gain, keeping a brothel and money laundering.

“All four are currently still in custody.

“We believe the organised crime group has persuaded Romanian women to travel to Northern Ireland with the false promise of a better quality of life.

“The shocking reality is that upon arrival the women are forced into prostitution and are exploited.

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

Detective Inspector Miskelly added: “Organised crime groups involved in human trafficking typically seek to identify, manipulate and exploit individuals. They prey on those who are vulnerable in any way.

“Victims’ hopes for a better life are abruptly shattered and instead they are treated horribly. Innocent people are treated like commodities. They are forced to engage in sexual activities, with the money earned going straight into the pockets of criminals.

“Although the brothels linked to this group were located in Ballymena and Omagh, we believe victims were transported to various locations around the country for the purpose of sexual exploitation.

“Unfortunately, we suspect there are more victims to be identified and we will continue our investigation.”

Detective Miskelly is urging anyone with information 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 on your street or in your neighbourhood.

“And I appeal to you, if you have any information or concerns that anyone is being exploited or controlled, please 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.”