POLICE have raided two premises in Winchester today as part of a Hampshire-wide crackdown on modern slavery.

Officers teamed up with partners from HM Revenue and Customs and UK Borders and Immigration, visiting three workplaces in Southampton, two in Winchester and four in Portsmouth.

No arrests were made at any of the premises but immigration issues were referred to the HMRC.

Detective Superintendent Dick Pearson, who is Hampshire Police’s lead for modern slavery and human trafficking, said: “We have been working together with our partners since 2013 to tackle modern slavery in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Last year, we had 40 potential slavery offences identified, however we are well aware that there is a hidden picture we have yet to uncover.

“The Modern Slavery Partnership launched by the Police and Crime Commissioner this week is a key part of this, raising awareness of what modern slavery is and encouraging us all to speak out. Anyone with information relating to modern slavery in Hampshire or on the Isle of Wight is urged to report it to us.

“The visits we conducted this week to premises are important for two reasons. Firstly to engage with people who could potentially be working as modern day slaves and ask them to consider speaking to supporting agencies, including the police. Secondly to make employers aware of the law and their obligation to their employees.”