Police infiltrate addresses across Leeds suspected over sex trafficking

Police in Leeds have been carrying out visits to suspected brothels in a bid to close in on sex trafficking | jpimedia

Properties suspected of being used for sex trafficking have been visited by officers this week, West Yorkshire Police has revealed.

Officers from the force's Modern Slavery Team joined the National Crime Agency (NCA) in a move to close in on sexual exploitation in Leeds.

A total of 15 addresses were visited this week where it was suspected victims of trafficking for sex may be held.

All the establishments had been linked to Adult Service Websites, and officers identified two potential trafficking victims as a result.

West Yorkshire Police said today (Friday) that enquiries remained ongoing to verify whether crimes have been committed.

Detective Sergeant Chris Rukin from the Force’s Human Trafficking Team, said: “Modern Slavery is an abhorrent crime in which ruthless criminals trade in human misery.

“Coercion and control can also form a part of the hold a trafficker may have on their victim and our priority is to safeguard and support vulnerable individuals who are being exploited whilst at the same time targeting and prosecuting those involved in this crime.”

If anyone recognises a potential victim or is in a position of exploitation themselves they can contact the police on 101 (999 if a crime is in progress) or the Modern Slavery Helpline on 08000 121 700.