Four arrested in Northern Ireland in operation targeting human trafficking

The PSNI have arrested four people as part of an operation against human trafficking.

The three men and a woman were arrested on Tuesday following searches in County Antrim and County Tyrone.

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

“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,” Detective Inspector Rachel Miskelly said.

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

Further victims

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

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

They are still in custody at this time.

The PSNI have identified one female victim and offered protection, but believe there may be more victims who have not been identified.

“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,” DI Miskelly said.

“Unfortunately, we suspect that there are more victims yet to be identified. Our investigation continues.”

‘Treated like a commodity’

DI Miskelly issued an appeal for information to help tackle criminals who exploit people seeking a better life.

“Organised criminal groups engaged in human trafficking typically seek to identify, manipulate and exploit individuals,” she said.

“They prey on people 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 perform sexual acts, with the money earned going straight into the pockets of criminals.”

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 contact us.

“We have a dedicated team who are eager to assist you and I promise you will be treated with the utmost respect and care.”