Human Traffickers Busted in East Kent Raids
Suspected human traffickers were hauled into court after dawn raids smashed an organised crime ring in East Kent. Police from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate stormed 11 homes across Folkestone, Dover and Lydd on Wednesday 16 May 2018. The raids targeted a network tied to modern slavery and exploitation linked to the Czech Republic.
Father and Son Duo Charged Over People Trafficking
Petr Makula, 47, and his son Mario Makula, 25, were arrested at their Dover home on Granville Street. The Crown Prosecution Service has slapped them with charges of arranging or facilitating travel with a view to exploitation under the 2015 Modern Slavery Act. Both men also face charges of possessing criminal property. They are set to appear at Medway Magistrates on Thursday 17 May 2018 for remand hearings.
Additional Arrests and Victims Spared
A 39-year-old man and a 38-year-old woman from Folkestone were also nabbed on suspicion of modern slavery but released on bail pending further inquiries until 7 June 2018. Officers identified 12 potential victims and moved them to safety during the crackdown.
Spot Human Trafficking? Speak Up Now
- Report suspicious activity at Kent Police website or call 101
- Ring Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111
- Contact the National Modern Slavery Helpline at 08000 121 700
Stay alert and help end modern slavery.
