Following reports that people were being exploited into forced labour, the teams visited a business in Billingham and spoke to a number of people to ensure they were being safeguarded.

Two residential properties in Middlesbrough were also visited by police and officers had concerns about one address in relation to how habitable it was. Further enquiries are ongoing with the council and fire brigade.

Officers from our Complex Exploitation Team (CET), as well as both Middlesbrough and Stockton’s Neighbourhood Policing Teams (NPT) were involved in the operation on Wednesday 2nd April.

GAIN Co-ordinator Paul Colling, from NEROCU, said: “Modern day slavery and exploitation are some of the most appalling and inexcusable crimes we encounter. Those involved target vulnerable people and strip them of their dignity and freedom.

“While strikes like this shows the action we’re taking with partners, we refuse to become complacent and will continue to robustly target suspects and safeguard those at risk.

“We’re asking people to be vigilant and look out for anything unusual in their community and let us know - does someone come and go from address at strange times, are there are a lot of different people coming and going from a property? Have you spotted poor working conditions at a shop or premise? If that’s the case, then please contact the police.”

Detective Sergeant John Bentley, from CET, said: “By holding these highly visible operations, we’re ensuring some of the most vulnerable people in our local community are safeguarded whilst disrupting any criminality.

“We know modern slavery can be a hidden crime and victims often do not want to come forward because of fear of violence or repercussions so we will continue to carry out this proactive work.

“I’d like to thank everyone involved in this multi-agency operation for their hard work. If you have information you’d like to share with us please contact us on 101 or you can report non-emergencies via our website.”

Anyone concerned can call 101 or 999 (in an emergency) or contact the Modern Slavery Helpline confidentially on 08000 121 700.

Information can be passed to Crimestoppers anonymously online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling 0800 555 111.