EIGHT MEN have been arrested after warrants were carried out in Bristol and Birmingham as part of an investigation into human trafficking.

Two women, aged 18 and 21, contacted police at the end of August to report incidents of sexual exploitation committed against them at a property in Eastville, Bristol.

The women also gave details surrounding the arrangement of forced marriages and an investigation was launched.

As a result of police enquiries, six warrants were carried out yesterday morning (September 9) under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act, at four addresses in Bristol and two in Birmingham.

The properties were in Eastville, Easton, Southville and Oldbury Court in Bristol.

In total, eight men were arrested: A 42-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of trafficking, rape and assault. He has been bailed for these offences until but has been remanded in custody in relation to an outstanding warrant.

Two men, aged 38 and 36, were arrested on suspicion of trafficking and have been released on bail.

A 24-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of money laundering and has been released on bail.

Three men were arrested on suspicion of immigration offences and will now be dealt with by the immigration authorities.

A 30-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of taking part in a forced marriage but this inquiry is being dealt with by the immigration authorities.

Det insp Peter Highway, of the Public Protection Unit, said: “We received information at the end of last month about potential offences relating to human trafficking and forced marriages.

“Prior to the warrants being carried out, the two young women were taken to safe accommodation and supported by The Salvation Army. The UK Human Trafficking Centre was also notified.

“There is a significant amount of work still to do on this inquiry and we are focussed on ensuring victims of suspected human trafficking are protected and offenders are brought to justice wherever possible.”

Ch supt Sue Scott, the Force lead for human trafficking, said: “We are very grateful for the support and professional expertise of charities such as The Salvation Army, who have helped care for the needs of the two victims involved in this investigation.

“We all have a duty to spot the signs of human trafficking and forced labour and I would urge anyone with information to please talk to us, as every piece of information helps.”

If you suspect human trafficking or modern slavery is happening in your area, call 0800 0121 700 or visit www.modernslavery.co.uk/contact.