Two men have been arrested as part of a modern slavery investigation in Bury St Edmunds.

The activity took place during Modern Slavery Awareness Week, highlighting Suffolk Constabulary’s ongoing commitment to tackling exploitation and supporting victims.

On Thursday 16 October, Suffolk police supported officers from the South West Regional Organised Crime Unit (SWROCU) in an operation targeting suspected human trafficking and forced labour linked to massage parlours.

Two women were safeguarded as part of the operation, and two men, both aged in their 60s, were arrested on suspicion of slavery, servitude and forced or compulsory labour. They were taken to Bury St Edmunds Police Investigation Centre for questioning and later released on bail pending further enquiries.

Suffolk Constabulary’s Modern Slavery Vulnerability Advisor, John French, said:
“Our priority is always to identify victims of modern slavery and ensure their welfare. We know that victims are often tricked or coerced into situations where they believe they are accepting legitimate work.

“In Suffolk, we are committed to working closely with partners and other police forces to identify exploitation and bring offenders to justice, while ensuring those affected are safeguarded and receive specialist support.

“Operations like this are often intelligence-led, which is why it is so important that members of the public report anything suspicious. These crimes can happen anywhere — they do happen in Suffolk — and we all have a role to play in spotting the signs and speaking up.”

Anyone who suspects exploitation is urged to contact the UK Modern Slavery & Exploitation Helpline on 08000 121 700. The service is free, confidential, available 24 hours a day and offers support in more than 200 languages.

If someone is in immediate danger, call 999. For more information on spotting the signs of exploitation, visit www.unseenuk.org.