Swindon business facing £40,000 fine for employing workers illegally
The business was investigated as part of a modern slavery and human trafficking operation.
A Swindon business is facing a £40,000 fine after employing workers illegally.
The business in Wichelstowe were investigated as part of Op Aidant; a Wiltshire Police operation focusing on modern slavery and human trafficking in the construction industry.
Two workers at the firm were arrested and bailed by immigration - they have also been safeguarded. The owner of the company and one other person were also arrested for forced labour offences.
PC Gee from Swindon North, East and rural neighbourhood Policing Team said: “By acting quickly on intelligence from our communities we were able to get out and make enquiries with the workers.
“Every check we do is important to safeguard people who may be subject to modern slavery and labour exploitation.
“On this occasion, through working with Immigration, we identified that the workers were working illegally with no valid paperwork.
“We will continue to monitor construction sites, building and landscaping companies to ensure that workers are not extorted and taken advantage of.”