Police arrested three people on suspicion of human trafficking and rescued three women from one address this morning.  

A 22-year-old woman and a 31-year-old man were arrested on suspicion of modern slavery and human trafficking offences, as well as managing a brothel and money laundering. 

A 36-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of human trafficking and money laundering. 

One of the properties targeted by the police's Exploitation and Missing Team is suspected to be a brothel.

The EMT has been targeting suspected illegal sex work in Swindon and carried out eight warrants at addresses in town today. 

Head of the EMT Det Insp Eirin Martin said:  "Today has been very successful.

"Not only have we been able to rescue three victims from an address in Swindon and we're providing support with specialist officers to them right now.

"We will be diligent in continuing to investigate these offences.

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"The focus of this operation was to target the exploiters as well as to rescue and safeguard anyone who was found to be a victim of exploitation, trafficking or modern slavery.

"The act of modern slavery and human trafficking affects us all and is taking place everywhere - even here in rural Wiltshire. 

"In fact the reality of modern slavery is that it is always present, often where you least expect it to be. 

"The operation was also supported by our partners as we continue to work together to combat this crime. 

"I would ask members of the public to be mindful of these crimes and if you suspect human trafficking or modern slavery is taking place at a local business or in your area, please report it to us. 

"Perhaps, you suspect someone you know as being exploited or, having considered this, you may believe you are a victim - if so, please contact us." 

Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Russell Holland said:  "The raid this morning was a great example of the professionalism and dedication of Wiltshire Police and our partners, to take serious action to protect those who are most vulnerable.

"The priority of the raid I attended was to ensure the safety and well-being of young women who very sadly have been sexually exploited.

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"I hope that they will now take the opportunity to get the help they need to have a better life. 

"Prostitution will very often be associated with serious organised crime such as the evil practice of human trafficking, money laundering and other serious criminal offences. Investigations will be ongoing to bring these criminals to justice.

"The Police and Crime Commissioner and Wiltshire Police are doing everything possible to create a hostile environment for criminals and raids like this are a key part of that. But the police cannot do this work alone. 

"Every single member of the community can play an important part by paying attention to what is happening around them."

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Steve Hay from Medaille Trust, a charity which works to combat modern slavery said: “We were pleased to have the opportunity to work with Wiltshire Police on this operation.

"We’ve developed a great ongoing partnership with the team and we are hopeful that by working together, we can prevent more people from experiencing modern slavery and exploitation.”

The Exploitation and Missing Team was supported by Community Policing Teams, Fortitude Team, Swindon Borough Council, the Medaille Trust and the Immigration Department.

If anyone suspects modern slavery or human trafficking is taking place in their area, report any suspicious incidents via 101 or Wiltshire Police's website.  Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.