New measures to tackle slavery and human trafficking in Hertfordshire

A dedicated police unit, called Operation Tropic, has been set up to help prevent modern slavery across the county.

The unit was unveiled at a conference attended by representatives from Hertfordshire Constabulary, human trafficking charity Shiva Foundation and the county council.

Speakers included the Anti-Slavery Commissioner’s Victim Support and Partnership advisor Tatiana Gren-Jardan, vice-chair of Human Trafficking Foundation Sir John Randall, PCC David Lloyd, director of Shiva Foundation Meenal Sachdev and Hertfordshire chief constable Charlie Hall.

Detective Superintendent Dave Wheatley introduced the unit, which will co-ordinate the force’s response to modern slavery, provide assistance to investigating officers, liaise with partner organisations and report back to national leadership in the area.

Detective Superintendent Wheatley said: “Almost every modern slavery investigation will require a multi-agency response, from charities that provide support to victims to multiple law enforcement agencies that tackle trafficking.

“It is therefore hugely beneficial for front line staff from different agencies throughout the county to come together to share best practice, and become more aware of the issues around this complex and hidden crime.

“Operation Tropic will play a leading role in developing and sustaining the partnership between these key stakeholders. This pilot represents a new approach in how we tackle modern slavery in Hertfordshire and I know that other forces around the country will be closely following our progress with a view to replicating our model.”