Police make modern slavery arrests in care home raids

Police have arrested three men following allegations that staff at two care homes were victims of modern day slavery.

Gwent Police and the National Crime Agency carried out raids in care homes in South Wales on Thursday morning (7 November).

Two men from Newport, aged 53 and 64, and a third from Surrey, 43, are in custody.

In a statement, Gwent Police said: ‘The warrants were carried out following allegations that staff working within these care homes, are the victims of modern day slavery and related offences.’

Gwent Police's human trafficking team worked with the British Red Cross, the Salvation Army and New Pathways prior to the arrests.

Modern slavery is defined as the recruitment, movement, harbouring or receiving of children, women or men through the use of force, coercion, abuse of vulnerability, deception or other means for the purpose of exploitation.

Detective Chief Superintendent Nicky Brain said, "Today’s action is part of an investigation into alleged offences against staff.

"Due to the nature of the investigation, we are fully aware the warrants that have taken place today may cause concern to residents of these homes and their families.

“We would like to reassure them that this investigation is not as a result of any concerns raised regarding crimes committed against people residing in these homes.”

Police have set up a reception centre for potential victims of modern slavery.

Newport council and Caerphilly council are working with Aneurin Bevan University Health Board and Care Inspectorate Wales to make sure care is delivered to residents at the care homes.

In a joint statement, Newport City Council and Caerphilly County Borough Council said: “We are working with Aneurin Bevan University Health Board and Care Inspectorate Wales to ensure a continuation of care.

“We appreciate families may be concerned as a result of today’s events but we would like to reassure them that their loved ones are safe and their well-being is our priority.

“We have been endeavouring to speak to all relatives of residents this morning but we also have dedicated numbers specially set up for them, if they want to contact us.”

Police have asked anyone with information relating to the alleged offences to call Gwent Police 101 quoting log 1900107421.