Major Human Trafficking Bust Rocks Southeast England and Bulgaria
Six suspects were arrested in southeast England early Wednesday, 26 April, as the Met’s Specialist Crime Command smashed a ruthless trafficking ring. Another three arrests hit Bulgaria.
Detectives Target Organised Crime Network Grooming Vulnerable Women
Detective Inspector Jim Madden from the Met’s Modern Slavery Unit said: “Today we have significantly disrupted this organised criminal network (OCN). Members of this OCN are suspected of grooming and trafficking vulnerable Bulgarian women into the UK. These women were trapped in brothels and forced into prostitution through brutal threats of violence.”
He added: “Sadly, exploitation like this still haunts both Bulgaria and the UK. The Met’s Modern Slavery Unit works relentlessly to hunt down traffickers and forced labour criminals. Every year, we safeguard hundreds of victims and crack down on these horrific crimes.”
Joint Europol, Eurojust, and Bulgarian Police Operation Smashes Trafficking Gang
The raids happened after close cooperation between the Met, Europol, Eurojust, and Bulgarian authorities. Six additional warrants were executed in Bulgaria’s Pleven and Dryanovo regions.
A total of nine gang members were hauled in—three men and six women—facing charges including modern slavery and controlling prostitution.
Public Urged to Spot and Report Signs of Modern Slavery
DI Madden urged Londoners to be vigilant: “The public plays a vital role in spotting and reporting possible victims of modern slavery. If you see something suspicious, please act.”
For confidential support or to report suspicions:
- Call the Modern Slavery Helpline: 08000 121 700 (24/7, year-round)
- Report online or call the police at www.met.police.uk or on 101
- In emergencies, dial 999
- Contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111 or crimestoppers-uk.org
