Sugden commends police following human trafficking raids

Ms Sugden said: “Human trafficking, particularly that associated with the sex industry, preys on the weak and vulnerable, forcing people without a voice into a life they never wanted.

“For many of its victims, who often have limited English and little knowledge of the countries they end up in, there can seem few places to turn for help. Operations like this, backed by the help and support of local communities, can bring an end to this cruel practice.

“It’s clear from the details of these raids that sex-trafficking exists right across NI – even on our doorsteps in Portrush and Coleraine. We must remain vigilant to signs of this kind of activity and report it when it appears.

“I hope that the victims will now be treated with compassion and dignity and those responsible for trafficking them will face the full rigour of the courts.”