Essex Police Arrest Eight in Multi-Agency Immigration Crime Operation

Essex Police, along with immigration officials, local councils, and the charity Justice and Care, conducted a coordinated operation targeting modern slavery and organised immigration crime in Chelmsford and Maldon. The raids resulted in the arrest of eight individuals—seven men and one woman—across three business locations, though the majority of businesses visited showed no cause for concern. Officers aimed to identify victims of forced labor and exploitation, with some detainees initially reluctant to speak but potentially disclosing abuse once removed from the environment. One suspect attempted to flee but was quickly apprehended. Authorities highlighted the vulnerability of victims, often due to factors like language barriers, health issues, or immigration status, and urged the public to report suspicions of exploitation. Essex has active anti-slavery partnerships involving police, councils, charities, and faith groups to raise awareness, provide training, and support victims.