POLICE have released six people suspected of being part of a sex slavery operation in Southampton.

It comes after officers arrested three men and three women arrested on suspicion of slavery offences during dawn raids yesterday morning.

Police say all six have been released from police custody, but remain under investigation.

Hampshire police say its officers are continuing their investigation enquiries.

Two women, aged 35 and 40-years-old are being treated as victims and are being supported by specially trained officers.

 

(Oceana Boulevard in Southampton)

The raids were carried out as part of a intelligence-led probe into a modern day slavery operation in Southampton, linked to the sex trade.

Three residential addresses in Portsmouth Road, Garton Road, Oceana Boulevard were visited as part of the operation.

Six people were arrested on suspicion of modern day slavery offences.

• A 52-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of holding a person in slavery or servitude

• A 64-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of managing a brothel used for prostitution.

• A 49-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of holding a person in slavery or servitude

• A 43-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of managing a brothel used for prostitution.

• A 37-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of managing a brothel used for prostitution.

 

(Garton Road, Southampton.)

• A 58-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of managing a brothel used for prostitution.

Detective Sergeant Emma Barrow from the Western Investigation Team said: “This was a proactive intelligence-led operation, the investigation which now follows will be complex and involves UK Visas and Immigration.

“We have identified two vulnerable women who are working with our specially trained Amberstone team to ensure they have access to the support they need.

“Information from the communities of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight is key in identifying criminal activity connected to organised crime and modern day slavery. I would continue to encourage anyone who notices suspicious activity or a vulnerable person who seems to be working against their will to contact us.”

Anyone with information which could assist this current investigation is asked to contact us on 101 and quote Operation Bayonet or 44180438539.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.