Two women arrested after five potential victims of human trafficking rescued in Belfast

By Adam Evans

Two women have been arrested after five female potential victims of human trafficking were rescued in operations across Belfast.

The PSNI, National Crime Agency and the Home Office were involved in searches at properties in east, South and west Belfast this morning.

We are told it's part of an extensive investigation into an organised criminal gang with links to Eastern Europe.

A 36-year-old suspect was held in the Glenbrook Avenue area where one potential victim was rescued.

Another suspect, 24 was held around Donegal Avenue where another potential victim was found.

Three others were rescued from an address in the Violet Street area.

They are all described as "female" - but we've not been told their ages.

Detective Superintendent Richard Campbell said: "PSNI are committed to tackling those involved in human trafficking and taking the unfortunate victims of this despicable trade to safety. To help us do this we require the public to be aware of what is going on around them and to report anything they believe to be suspicious. 

"We will act on any information received and continue to target these criminal gangs. Anyone with any concerns or information about trafficking, or any other criminal activity, should contact their local police on 101."