Six Arrested in UK-Bulgaria Human Trafficking Sting
Major Raid Hits Brutal Trafficking Gang
In a bold crackdown, detectives from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command executed four search warrants in southeast England on Wednesday 26 April, resulting in six arrests. Meanwhile, Bulgarian authorities made three further arrests linked to the same organised crime network (OCN).
Exploiting Vulnerable Women Across Borders
Detective Inspector Jim Madden from the Met’s Modern Slavery Unit revealed the chilling reality behind the operation.
“Today we have significantly disrupted this organised criminal network. They’re suspected of grooming and trafficking vulnerable Bulgarian women into the UK, forcing them into prostitution through fear and violence.”
Madden warned such exploitation is rife across London and the UK. The Met is tirelessly hunting down human traffickers and forced labour rings, helping hundreds of victims annually.
Joint Forces Smash Crime Ring
The Met teamed up with Europol, Eurojust, and Bulgaria’s General Directorate Combating Organised Crime to dismantle the gang. Alongside UK raids in Wood Green, Tottenham, Cheshunt, and Milton Keynes" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Milton Keynes, six warrants were simultaneously conducted in Bulgaria’s Pleven and Dryanovo regions.
In total, nine gang members—three men and six women—have been arrested. Charges include modern slavery, controlling prostitution, drug supply, and money laundering. They remain in custody as police seize around £1 million worth of cash, luxury cars, and property.
Spot the Signs and Speak Up
At one Wood Green address, officers rescued a woman who is now receiving specialist support.
DI Madden urged Londoners to stay vigilant: “The public plays a crucial role in spotting modern slavery. If you suspect someone is a victim, report it. Victims often don’t see themselves as such, coerced into exploitation with threats and deception.”
He added victims can be found anywhere—from brothels and cannabis farms to car washes, nail bars, and construction sites.
How to Report Suspected Modern Slavery
- Call The Salvation Army’s 24-hour confidential helpline: 0800 808 3733
- Contact the Modern Slavery Helpline: 08000 121 700 (open 24/7)
- Report online at the Met Police website: www.met.police.uk
- Call police on 101, or 999 in emergencies
- Contact Crimestoppers anonymously: 0800 555 111 or crimestoppers-uk.org
