Police forced entry into an abattoir in Stockport last week as part of an investigation into modern slavery.

Officers from Greater Manchester Police (GMP) gained entry to the building on Higher Bury Street on 30 January, following allegations that a man who previously worked at the abattoir was a victim of modern day slavery.

The claims are that the man was forced to live and work in the abattoir to pay off 'extortionate' debts, said to be associated with a sponsorship visa and travel expenses.

Police arrested a man in his thirties on the site, despite his attempts to evade police, fleeing from the site and hiding on a nearby roof. 

The man is an Albanian national who was living in the UK illegally. He is now being processed by Immigration Enforcement.

An Albanian national was arrested at the abattoir, and is now being processed by Immigration Enforcement (Image - GMP)

Following the raid, officers seized evidence and interviewed employees "with a keen eye for spotting signs of exploitation".

In connection with this investigation, Police also executed a search warrant at a residential property in Blackburn, Lancashire. A further two people were arrested here - a man and a woman in their thirties - on suspicion of human trafficking and an offence of slavery, servitude and forced or compulsory labour.

Detective Sergeant Lee Attenborough hoped that the 'robust and coordinated action' would instil confidence in GMP's approach to dealing with modern slavery.

"Officers spoke with every employee working within the abattoir last night, they were receptive to our presence, and we engaged in good discussions around their working conditions, payment, and terms of employment", DS Attenborough added.

Officers spoke with other workers at the abattoir (Image - GMP)

"It's so important we do this diligence and thankfully there were no further claims of exploitation. We have communicated the support that is available and how to access it should anyone choose to come forward.

"Modern slavery is happening across Greater Manchester, and we encourage anyone who is a victim of this crime, or suspect someone they know could be, to report it. You will always be taken seriously, and protection and support is available."

You can report modern slavery using GMP's online crime reporting service.

Debi Lloyd, Head of UK Counter Trafficking Operations at Justice and Care, added: "If you are experiencing exploitation, please know you are not alone, and support is available.

"Every person out there can play a part in fighting modern slavery by learning to spot the signs and reporting any concerns to police or the Modern Slavery Helpline on 0800 0121 700."

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