A series of special events are being held as part of a new crackdown on human trafficking and modern slavery.

To coincide with Anti-Slavery Day, officers from British Transport Police (BTP) and Border Force, have joined together for the first time to raise awareness amongst the travelling public whilst also looking out for people who may be at risk.

Specialist patrols and events are taking place at stations which provide direct access to airports – somewhere where victims are likely to pass through.

Superintendent Matt Allingham, from BTP, explains: “Whilst awareness of modern slavery is slowly on the rise, the victims of this crime are often left in the shadows. We know that all too often, victims are forced to live in fear – leaving them too scared to come forward and tell police. To counteract this, our officers have undertaken specialist training to equip them with the skills they need to spot possible victims as they pass through our train stations.

“The rail network is an easy way for victims to be trafficked into towns and cities across the UK. By placing our officers at those train stations which provide direct access to some of the busiest airports, we hope to find victims of modern slavery and those who may be at risk before they reach their destinations.”