BUSINESSES were raided in Cheshire as part of a modern slavery operation, police have confirmed.

Operation Activity – a joint operation between several agencies – ran from Monday, May 30 to Friday, June 3.

Cheshire Police visited businesses across the county for the week-long operation to identify potential victims and gather intelligence about modern slavery.

Businesses in Northwich, Winsford and Crewe were targeted.

Det Chief Insp Gwyn Dodd said: "Modern day slavery is a challenging issue for police and partners to deal with as it is very much a hidden crime – and the true extent of the problem is not known.

“This operation reinforces the fact that labour exploitation can happen anywhere – even in the most unexpected of places.”

Det Chief Insp Dodd said one of the biggest challenges the force faces is helping people realise they are victims.

He said it is important to recognise the signs and behaviours associated with modern slavery, to look out for potential victims and to report any concerns.

"It is also important that anyone who is a victim – or is at risk of becoming a future victim – is identified and offered the necessary support and safeguarding,” Det Chief Insp Dodd said.

“There is no place in Cheshire for this type of activity. We are determined to make sure people can live and work in Cheshire safely.”

Car washes in particular were targeted as part of Operation Activity.

A total of 45 hand car washes were visited across the county during the week-long operation.

Operation Activity coincided with a European week of action, called Operation Hornsman, which also focused on modern day slavery.

Det Chief Insp Dodd said: "Modern day slavery stems from organised crime and targets some of the most vulnerable people in our society.

“People are being tricked by organised crime groups into coming to the UK with a promise of a good job and a better life.

"Instead, they are exploited and forced to live in terrible conditions and work for very little reward.

“Often they have little opportunity to move freely, they are completely controlled by their abusers and therefore it is very difficult for them to get help and break free of the situation.

"This is an issue that is happening here and now and in Cheshire. It is important to remember that the majority of people running these businesses are doing so legitimately.

“However, intelligence suggests there are some who are using this as an opportunity to commit this type of crime."

Anyone who has any concerns or any information about this type of crime is urged to call Cheshire Police on 101.

Information can also be passed on anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.