The PSNI (Police Service of Northern Ireland) has taken a resolute stance against modern slavery and human trafficking, which is commendable. However, Lord Maurice Morrow's recent comments questioning the PSNI's actions regarding the screening of brothels have stirred controversy.
Back in 2015, Lord Morrow championed the Human Trafficking and Exploitation Act in Northern Ireland, a pivotal legislation that criminalized the purchase of sexual services and the exploitation associated with controlling such activities.
During Anti-Slavery Week last month, the PSNI collaborated with various organizations to address the alarming issue of modern slavery and human trafficking. Detective Chief Superintendent Andy Hill emphasized their unwavering dedication to combating these horrors, underscoring the importance of awareness-raising and victim support.
While the PSNI's efforts included checks on various locations like car washes, nail bars, and brothels for potential signs of exploitation, questions arose regarding their approach towards brothels. Despite acknowledging the existence of these establishments through their screening exercises, the PSNI's actions in closing them down seemed elusive.
The Human Trafficking and Exploitation Act expressly forbids the operation of brothels, as they involve the sale of sexual services, an activity criminalized under this legislation. Lord Morrow rightly expressed concern about the PSNI's apparent awareness of these illegal premises while seemingly not taking decisive steps to shut them down and rescue those ensnared in exploitation.
In response to inquiries, the PSNI reiterated their commitment to identifying potential signs of slavery and trafficking during their screening process. They emphasized the aim was to raise awareness among property letting staff regarding indicators of exploitation, yet no concerns were reportedly found during these operations.
Despite this explanation, Lord Morrow persisted in seeking clarity on the PSNI's inaction regarding the closure of brothels, highlighting the disparity between the law and its enforcement. He emphasized that the role of the police is to ensure complete adherence to legislation, not selective implementation. He questioned whether the PSNI truly comprehends the full extent of the law or if they're falling short in its enforcement.
Lord Morrow pointed out the disconcerting lack of prosecutions under the Human Trafficking and Exploitation Act since its enactment in 2015, suggesting a worrying perception that such illegal activities are tacitly condoned. He emphasized the urgency for comprehensive follow-up operations and prosecutions to rectify this situation, urging the enforcement bodies to step up their efforts in aligning with the established legislation.
In conclusion, Lord Morrow's concerns underscore the necessity for robust enforcement of laws against human trafficking and exploitation, emphasizing that legislative intent must translate into effective action to protect vulnerable individuals and eradicate such criminal activities.
The PSNI's approach to screening for trafficked victims in brothels without shutting them down involves a nuanced strategy focused on identifying potential signs of exploitation and trafficking while engaging with staff and establishments.
During their screening exercises, the PSNI's goal is not solely to shut down brothels immediately but to first identify indicators or red flags that might suggest the presence of trafficking or exploitation within these establishments. This involves highly trained officers visiting these locations to engage in conversations with staff, particularly those involved in the letting of premises. They aim to raise awareness among these individuals about the signs of exploitation, trafficking, or other criminal activities.
The intent behind this screening process is to gather information, observe the environment, and detect any potential signs of trafficking or exploitation within these premises. The officers may look for indications such as the presence of vulnerable individuals who might be coerced or forced into sex work, signs of restricted movement or living conditions, unusual behaviors, or any other indicators that could suggest exploitation or trafficking.
It's important to note that during these screenings, if no immediate concerns or clear evidence of trafficking or exploitation are found, the PSNI might not proceed with shutting down the premises at that specific moment. Instead, they could use the information gathered to further investigate or monitor the situation, potentially leading to future actions if substantial evidence of illegal activities emerges.
The primary focus during these screenings is to gather intelligence, raise awareness among involved parties, and gather enough evidence to take decisive action against trafficking and exploitation while ensuring the safety and protection of potential victims. Shutting down establishments requires sufficient evidence and legal procedures to ensure effective enforcement actions while upholding due process and safeguarding victims' rights.