TWO people have been arrested on suspicion of holding a person in slavery or servitude as part of an investigation into reported vehicle thefts in East Dorset.

An address in Holt, Wimborne was visited by police on December 3 after detectives investigated reports of vehicle thefts that took place in September.

A 36-year-old woman from Bournemouth and a 56-year-old man from Coulsdon, Surrey were arrested on suspicion of theft of motor vehicle offences, but after officers conducted a search at the address, the pair were also arrested on suspicion of holding a person in slavery or servitude.

A 59-year-old man from Southampton and a 33-year-old man and a 52-year-old man – both from Wimborne – were arrested on suspicion of theft of motor vehicle offences.

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The 52-year-old man was also arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon in a private place.

All five people have been released under investigation.

Inspector Emma Reeves, of the Dorset Police rural crime team, said: “We are continuing to investigate the reported vehicle thefts and these arrests demonstrate that we are taking appropriate action and covering all proportionate lines of enquiry to recover stolen vehicles.

“If you have been the victim of vehicle crime, I would urge you to report the incident to us.

“This warrant has also led to further enquiries into suspected modern slavery offences being committed at the address.

“We would ask anyone who is the victim of modern slavery offences or any kind of exploitation to please come forward to report it to us, in the knowledge that you will be fully supported and we will thoroughly investigate the matter.

“Furthermore, members of the public are advised to be vigilant of the signs that someone could be being exploited and to report any concerns to police.”

Anyone with information can make a report by calling 101 or by visiting the Dorset Police website.

Click here for more information on human trafficking and modern slavery, including how to spot signs and report concerns.