A SECOND man has been arrested by the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority following simultaneous raids at two hand car washes in the Barnsley area.

The operations were carried out last Thursday, resulting in the arrest of a 24-year-old Romanian man, on suspicion of modern slavery offences. He was later released under investigation pending further enquiries.

The second arrest was made on Wednesday, where a 30-year-old Albanian man was arrested on suspicion of the same offence.

Two Romanian men who previously worked at the car washes have been supported and entered the government’s National Referral Mechanism.

Several workers at both hand car washes were interviewed on site about their working and living conditions and investigations are ongoing to establish if there are any potential further victims.

The potential victims had said that their ID cards and mobile phones had been withheld at different points, and that they had suffered burns to their hands and arms through not having the appropriate protective equipment when cleaning vehicles.

GLAA officers also seized mobile phones, CCTV footage from the car washes and other evidence which may prove critical to the investigation.

The operation was supported by officers from South Yorkshire Police and Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council.

GLAA investigating officer Steve Brookes said: “We are determined to stamp out modern slavery and labour exploitation in all forms and this operation demonstrates that we will continue to pursue people suspected of these serious offences.

“We would encourage people to report their suspicions to us and be aware of the signs of exploitation at these car washes. Are the workers wearing protective equipment? Is their clothing appropriate for the time of year? Are they unable to speak English and looking nervous? These are just a few of the signs of exploitation.”

People are encouraged to let the GLAA know if they have concerns about potential modern slavery and labour exploitation offences at hand car washes, by calling 0800 4320804 or emailing intelligence@gla.gov.uk