Four arrested in Tameside massage parlour crackdown

Police have arrested four people and safeguarded a vulnerable individual following a series of coordinated visits to massage parlours across Tameside.

Officers from Greater Manchester Police (GMP) carried out seven visits on Tuesday (24 March) alongside partner agencies as part of efforts to tackle exploitation and wider criminal activity in the area.

The joint operation involved Immigration Enforcement, HMRC, Social Care, Licensing, Environmental Health and Trading Standards. Its primary aim was to identify and protect individuals who may be at risk of exploitation, including victims of human trafficking and modern slavery, while also addressing potential offences linked to immigration, licensing, sexual exploitation and organised crime.

During the day of action, four people were arrested on suspicion of immigration and modern-day slavery offences. Two men, arrested on suspicion of modern slavery, have been remanded in custody for questioning.

In addition, two women were arrested by Immigration Enforcement officers on suspicion of immigration offences. They have since been bailed pending further investigation.

Authorities also confirmed that one safeguarding referral was made to protect a potentially vulnerable individual, while HMRC has launched seven investigations into suspected financial irregularities uncovered during the visits.

Officers and partner agencies engaged directly with business owners and staff, taking enforcement action where suspected criminality was identified.

Sergeant Steph O’Brien, from Tameside District Intelligence Unit, said: “Following today’s work, four individuals have been arrested on suspicion of immigration and modern-day slavery related offences.

“I’d like to thank our partners for all their hard work and dedication; these results are a reflection of the work we carry out together to make our communities safer for all.

“Modern slavery is an appalling crime with no place in our communities – exploiting vulnerable people for profit is unacceptable.

“We encourage anyone who is a victim of this crime or suspects someone they know could be to report it so we can take action.”

Anyone with concerns about criminal activity is urged to contact police on 101 or via GMP’s online reporting tools. In an emergency, always dial 999.

Reports can also be made to the Modern Slavery Helpline on 08000 121 700, through its website, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.