Three people have been arrested following a major police raid on an abattoir in Stockport, as part of an investigation into human trafficking and modern slavery. Officers from Greater Manchester Police (GMP) forced entry into the facility on Higher Bury Street on Thursday while executing a second simultaneous raid at a residential property on Merlin Road in Blackburn, Lancashire.
A man and a woman, both in their 30s, were arrested on suspicion of human trafficking and offenses related to slavery, servitude, and forced labor. A third suspect, also in his 30s, was arrested at the abattoir after attempting to escape from police, fleeing the site and hiding on a nearby roof.
Suspect Identified as Illegal Worker Facing Deportation
GMP confirmed that the man who attempted to flee was an Albanian national living and working illegally in the UK. He has since been handed over to Home Office immigration authorities for further processing.
Authorities launched the raid after receiving reports that a man had been forced to live inside the abattoir and work under extreme conditions to repay what were described as “extortionate debts” linked to a sponsorship visa and travel expenses.
Police Seize Evidence and Interview 30 Workers
As part of the investigation, police interviewed 30 workers found at the site, seizing mobile phones, computer equipment, and documents that may provide further evidence of forced labor and human trafficking.
Detective Sergeant Lee Attenborough urged victims of modern slavery to come forward, emphasizing that support is available. “Modern slavery is happening across Greater Manchester, and we encourage anyone who is a victim or suspects someone they know could be at risk to report it. You will always be taken seriously, and protection and support are available,” he said.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to dismantle human trafficking networks operating in the region.
