Two men arrested in Ballymena by detectives investigating human trafficking have both been released on police bail pending further enquiries.
A 33-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of three counts of human trafficking for sexual exploitation, controlling prostitution for gain, converting criminal property and a number of motoring offences.
An 18-year-old man was also arrested on suspicion of money laundering and controlling prostitution.
Detectives from the PSNI’s Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Unit conducted searches of properties in Ballymena and Belfast this morning (Tuesday) as part of this investigation.
These arrests follow the arrest of five men last week on suspicion of paying for sexual services. A file on these five arrests is being prepared for the Public Prosecution Services.
Detective Inspector Mark Bell said these arrests are part of an investigation into human trafficking for sexual exploitation in Northern Ireland.
“Sexual exploitation is often an unseen crime – often victims are transported to clients’ properties so there may not be the obvious case of men coming and going to the one property.
“Furthermore, many victims can be afraid to speak out or may be being held captive. However, for some people who are subject to this kind of exploitation, they may not think of themselves as victims.
“They may be vulnerable and have been manipulated into having sex for money, often controlled and coerced into passing over some of the profits to another person who ultimately lines their pockets as a result of the exploitation,” he said.
And he is appealing for victims to come forward to police.
“Perhaps you are in this position but don’t think that you are being exploited. I’d urge you to have a think about the people around you and if there is anyone who is pushing you in a certain direction or financially benefiting from your activities, please make contact with the police,” he said.
Detective Inspector Mark Bell is also asking the public to be aware of the signs of human trafficking.
“Maybe you have concern for a friend or someone you know who is being put under pressure to provide sexual services and made to feel that they have no choice. They may be keeping anti-social hours and be driven around by someone they won’t let you get to know. There could be obvious signs that the person is being controlled, such as a lack of access to their money,” he added.
“Whilst the sale of sex in itself is not a crime in Northern Ireland, it is a criminal offence to purchase sex. I want to make it very clear – if you are paying for sexual services, you are committing a crime. Do you really want to be getting a knock on the door from police, perhaps having to explain to family and friends why you have been arrested?
“I want to encourage anyone who purchases sex to think of the consequences. Furthermore, you cannot be sure that the person providing the services has not been forced to or trafficked to make a profit for the person controlling them,” he added.
Detective Inspector Mark Bell said human trafficking is unacceptable.
“The criminals responsible prey on vulnerable people, violate their human rights and exploit them for their own selfish gains. Unlike drugs or firearms which are only bought or sold once, a victim can be sexually exploited over and over again, which could generate a continuous source of income for criminals.
“We are committed to protecting victims and targeting those who exploit or cause harm. I would also ask people to contact us with any concerns that they may have by calling 999 if it’s an emergency, or 101. There’s also a Modern Slavery Helpline on 08000 121 700,” added Detective Inspector Mark Bell.