Eight arrests in immigration and slavery inquiry

Eight people have been arrested on suspicion of immigration offences following an investigation into modern slavery and organised immigration crime.

Seven men and one woman were detained after Essex Police visited businesses in Chelmsford and Maldon to check on the welfare and legal status of the people working there.

While eight people were arrested, they said there were "no causes for concern at the majority of businesses visited".

The operation included officials from the immigration service, the local council and a charity worker.

Sgt Matt Dalby said: "We were looking for evidence of organised immigration crime and to identify victims of modern-day slavery and forced labour, as well as suspects that may be responsible for facilitating that kind of criminality.

"Those detained may initially be reluctant to tell us why they're at the premises but once they are spoken to away from that environment, they may disclose they are victims of exploitation."

He added: "This was an intelligence-led operation, and we will continue to ask the public to report to us whenever they have suspicions or are worried about the welfare of individuals they may encounter."

Follow Essex news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.