Stafford car washes inspected in multi-agency modern slavery operation

Police and partner agencies visited two car washes in Stafford to check workers' conditions and welfare. No issues were raised by staff at either business.

Stafford car washes targeted in modern slavery crackdown

Police and partner agencies carried out joint inspections of car washes in Stafford on Thursday 15 October as part of an operation to tackle modern slavery, hellorayo.co.uk reports.

Staffordshire Police said car washes are frequently cash-in-hand businesses that can be exploited as fronts by organised crime gangs. Officers from the Stafford local policing team were joined by immigration enforcement officers, the Fair Work Agency, His Majesty's Revenue & Customs and staff from the charity Justice and Care.

Two car washes were visited during the operation. Staff were spoken to about their working conditions, wages and wellbeing.

PC Helen Walker said the visits were designed to build intelligence and strengthen relationships with business owners in the town. "We have conducted these multi-agency visits to ensure the welfare and wellbeing of workers and to gain a deeper understanding of business operations," she said.

No concerns were uncovered at either premises. "We visited two car washes to speak to members of staff about their working conditions, wages and wellbeing," Walker said. "Thankfully, no issues were raised."

Staffordshire Police said its dedicated modern slavery and human trafficking team works alongside officers to gather intelligence, investigate suspected trafficking and support potential victims.

Walker urged members of the public to come forward with any concerns. "If you have concerns about a business, or any unusual activity in your area, please let us know," she said.

Anyone who suspects modern slavery can contact Staffordshire Police on 101 or via the force's website. In an emergency, call 999. Anonymous reports can be made to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Source: Google News UK — Crime (en)