Illegal brothels were discovered and a victim in Oldham rescued in a crackdown on human trafficking by police.

Members of a suspected human trafficking gang linked to Romania have been arrested at various locations across the UK in early morning raids led by Wiltshire Police.

Officers from police forces across the country carried out warrants at addresses in Oldham, Leeds, Birmingham, Reading, and Southampton.  

The officers were supported by staff from the National Crime Agency, South West Regional Organised Crime Unit (SW ROCU), and local authorities for each area. 

Three men and one woman were arrested on suspicion of human trafficking and money laundering. 

In total, seven addresses were searched.

One suspect was arrested in Birmingham, two in Reading, and another in Southampton. 

More than £5,000 worth of cash was also seized along with several mobile phones. 

Two illegal brothels were discovered, one in Southampton and the other in Reading. 

A total of five victims from Reading, Southampton and Oldham were rescued and are now receiving help and support from our partners and specialist officers.  

Detective Inspector Angela Shipp from Wiltshire Police said: “This was a major international operation led by us to arrest some of the suspects who we believe are members of a Europe wide organised crime group which trafficks victims from Romania into the UK. 

“These illegal organised gangs operate all over the world - they know no boundaries - and cause misery to countless victims who are often enslaved, have to live in often horrendous conditions with no quality of life, and are forced into sexual exploitation to survive.

“The victims we rescued today were engaged with and are now being looked after by specially trained officers. 

“Thanks to our joined-up work with our partners here and abroad, today's operation has been a success as we manage to arrest four people on suspicion of modern slavery crimes. 

“All have been taken to either Gablecross Police Station in Swindon or Melksham Police Station to be interviewed.”

Anyone who suspects modern slavery or human trafficking is taking place, is asked to report any suspicious incidents via 101. 

Dial 999 if it's an emergency.  People can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.