POLICE warn residents to stay alert to the ‘hidden crime’ of human trafficking.

As part of World Day against Trafficking in Persons Dorset Police urged people across the county to stay vigilant for signs of affected people.

A form of modern slavery, human trafficking is the illegal movement of people usually through violence or deception, which affects people across the globe.

Detective Inspector Fiona Gaffney said: “Men, women and children are trafficked and forced into slavery across the UK for a variety of purposes including; sexual exploitation, forced labour, debt bondage, domestic servitude and other criminal activities.

“We know that human trafficking and modern slavery can happen anywhere in the country and we are working to stamp it out in Dorset. With partners, our officers target various locations across the county to ensure individuals are not being trafficked or forced into work.”

Victims of human trafficking can be any age, ethnicity or nationality, including immigrants and UK citizens- although it is most prevalent amongst vulnerable members of society and minority groups.

Insp Gaffney added: “Common areas where we look out for labour exploitation are in car washes, nail and beauty bars, and in industries such as agriculture, construction and building, hospitality, food processing and manufacturing. These crimes are known to be very well hidden, so we really need the general public of Dorset to be vigilant to any signs of exploitation.”

Warning signs may include; keeping unusual hours, being dropped off late at night, or any indications of physical or psychological abuse, such as appearing malnourished or withdrawn.

Police and Crime Commissioner, Martyn Underhill said: “Dorset it is not excluded from national issues such as human trafficking and modern slavery. This evil crime targets the vulnerable, the very group that our society needs to protect.

More information can be found on the Dorset Police website. Any suspicions should be reported at www.dorset.police.uk