Slavery Horror in Bristol: Couple Jailed for Trafficking Slovak Victims
Maros Tancos and Joanna Gomulska, both 46, ran a brutal modern slavery racket in Bristol. They lured vulnerable Slovak victims with false promises of work, a home, and food—only to trap them in exploitation and misery.
Sweet Talk, Bitter Reality
Tancos recruited victims through his contacts in Slovak orphanages and camps. He promised transportation to the UK, a place to live, and half of their wages. The other half, he said, would cover food and living costs.
But once in their cramped three-bedroom home on Brentry Lane, the victims were locked inside, their IDs and phones confiscated. They were forced to work—day and night—at Tancos’ car wash and other grueling jobs like packing milk and catching chickens. And they didn’t see a penny.
Cold, Cruel Control
- Gomulska handled UK transport and held on to victims’ identity documents.
- She acted as interpreter at appointments, then seized bank cards and PINs.
- Tancos abused victims physically, threatening and hitting some.
- Victims described the house as a “gate to hell” where they were treated like slaves.
Tancos and Gomulska skimmed nearly £1 million in unpaid wages and drained almost £300,000 from their victims’ accounts. The money funded their lavish lifestyle of gambling, cars, and living expenses.
Justice Served After Years of Torment
The National Crime Agency launched an investigation in 2017, uncovering crimes dating back to 2010. Officers monitored the couple’s movements and spoke to 42 victims. Twenty-nine testified in court, revealing harrowing accounts of abuse and neglect.
“The only thing I knew was work. I was under the impression that I was a slave there the entire time,” one victim said. “I thought there was no turning back.”
After a near three-month trial, Tancos was jailed for 16 years and Gomulska for nine. Tancos also received a Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Order. Judge Picton praised the NCA’s relentless work.
Officials Speak Out
National Crime Agency Branch Commander Colin Williams said: “Our investigation has put these two cruel abusers behind bars for a long time. Despite promises of a better life, victims were kept prisoners and treated with contempt. These testimonies reveal the deep scars left by their treatment.”
Child Protection Minister Rachel Maclean added: “Tackling modern slavery is a top priority. Victims deserve support to rebuild, and those exploiting them must face justice.”
Spot Modern Slavery? Speak Up
If you suspect modern slavery or exploitation in your community or workplace, call the Modern Slavery Helpline on 08000 121 700 or contact police on 101.
