More action to be taken to tackle human trafficking in Teesside

More action will be taken to tackle the issue of human trafficking in the Cleveland Police area.

Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner Barry Coppinger says that in the style of his force's work with other forces and partners across the country, Cleveland Police will set up a local anti-slavery network to tackle the growing issue of modern slavery in Teesside.

It's hoped that by working with partners in the local community, police will receive more intelligence that'll allow them to carry out operations against those involved in human trafficking.

Barry Coppinger said:

"I think a joined up approach - with people coming forward and the police and other partners working jointly - we can provide the best possible support to victims of this awful crime."

"We're also seeking to replicate a local anti-slavery network on Teesside and that will be launched in the next few weeks."

Anne Read, Director of anti-trafficking and modern slavery for the Salvation Army, said:

"We're seeing many victims being referred to the Salvation Army for support, the number continues to grow year on year - a growth of around 50% in the number of victims being supported.

"I don't think we can underestimate how important it is that the general public play their part, report any suspicions and that'll hopefully mean more police operations that address this issue."

It comes as eight men were arrested following raids in Middlesbrough and Stockton yesterday.