Wiltshire Police Land First Modern Slavery Convictions
Wiltshire Police have secured their first-ever convictions under the Modern Slavery Act after a gruelling three-and-a-half-year probe. Cristian Simion, 29, and Mihaela Borcos, 25, both from Grays, Essex, were sentenced at Salisbury Crown Court on September 29 for running a ruthless human trafficking ring.
Traffickers Jailed for Exploiting Vulnerable Women
Simion was found guilty of human trafficking and money laundering, landing two years and five months behind bars. Borcos, guilty of similar charges, received two years and two months.
The pair targeted vulnerable Romanian women who spoke little or no English, forcing them to work as sex workers across the UK. They profited heavily—Simion pocketed roughly £60,000 while Borcos made about £10,000 between April 2016 and August 2017.
How Police Cracked the Case
The case erupted after North Wales Police uncovered suspicious activity involving a sex worker in Wrexham. Intelligence led Wiltshire officers to Simion and Borcos in swindon/" title="Swindon" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Swindon. Investigators sifted through financials, digital evidence, and witness statements to expose the organised crime operation.
Detective Constable Nick Bishop said, “We carried out a lengthy investigation to prove Simion and Borcos were exploiting vulnerable women and profiting from their misery.”
“This case shows modern slavery is very real, with very real victims. We will work hard to bring offenders to justice.”
Police Urge Public to Spot the Signs
Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker, leading Wiltshire’s anti-trafficking efforts, stressed the importance of public vigilance. “These crimes are often hidden. We need communities to report suspicious activity so we can act,” he said.
He added that victims will be supported and encouraged anyone suspicious of trafficking or modern slavery to report it.
For more information, visit Wiltshire Police’s human trafficking advice page, or call the Modern Slavery Helpline confidentially on 08000 121700, open 24/7, all year round.
