Three arrested in modern slavery investigation
Three people have been arrested as part of an investigation into modern slavery in South Tyneside, Newcastle and Gateshead.
Arrests were made at addresses in Boldon Colliery, Elswick and Bensham on Wednesday, October 14.
Two women aged 63 and 39 and one man aged 32 were arrested on suspicion of controlling prostitution for gain, fraud by false representation and concealing criminal property.
They have all been released on conditional bail pending further enquiries.
Detective Inspector Ashley Loader, of Northumbria Police, said: “These arrests demonstrate our ongoing commitment to tackling modern slavery and targeting those who seek to exploit vulnerable people for their own gain.
“There is no wider risk to the public in relation to this investigation.
“This type of offending can have a devastating impact on victims.
“Modern slavery has no place in our communities.”
Anyone with information regarding the report should contact Northumbria Police quoting reference number 26000470495.