Six individuals in London and Romania have been arrested in connection with a police investigation into human trafficking, where women are lured into prostitution using "loverboy tactics."
On Friday morning, 133 officers conducted raids in both countries, uncovering six suspected victims of modern slavery in London.
The Metropolitan Police suspect an organized crime network is using male recruiters in Romania to pose as boyfriends to potential victims. They then traffic the women to London to be exploited in the sex trade.
A 24-year-old man, sought by a UK court warrant, was apprehended and taken into custody in north London.
Five individuals were detained by Romanian officers for questioning regarding alleged human trafficking.
During the raids, authorities seized cash, watches, vehicles, and firearms.
Detective Inspector Melanie Lillywhite from the Met's modern slavery unit stated that the gang's operations have been "disrupted."
She emphasized that recruitment and grooming of women for exploitation continues across London and the UK, with hundreds of modern slavery victims identified each year.
The individuals found during the raids will receive support from the charity Justice and Care, as well as assistance from specialist officers from the Met Police.
The investigation involved cooperation with European agencies Europol and Eurojust, with 12 warrants issued in Romania and three in north London.
Ms. Lillywhite also noted that victims of modern slavery are often found working in construction, farming, cannabis factories, car washes, barbershops, and nail salons, and urged the public to provide information.
She added that victims are frequently told not to trust police and authorities in the UK and, with limited English, are unable to seek help even if they wish to.
She concluded by stating that there may be victims of modern slavery in every borough across London, and the public may encounter them daily without realizing it.