Three men have been arrested following police raids at two care homes as part of a modern day slavery investigation.
Officers from Gwent Police and the National Crime Agency carried out warrants at Ashville Residential Care Home on School Street in Brithdir, and Danygraig Nursing Home on Chepstow Road in Newport.
The warrants were carried out this morning, Thursday, November 7, following allegations that staff working in the care homes are the victims of modern day slavery and related offences.
A 53-year-old man and a 64-year-old man both from the Newport area and a 43-year-old man from the Surrey area have all been arrested on suspicion of modern day slavery offences.
A reception centre for potential victims has been set up and specialist Gwent Police officers from the force’s Human Trafficking Team.
Authorities, including Caerphilly County Borough Council, are working together to ensure that care to residents is unaffected.
Detective Chief Superintendent Nicky Brain said: “Today’s action is part of an investigation into alleged offences against staff working at Danygraig Nursing Home and Ashville Residential Home.
“Due to the nature of the investigation, we are fully aware the warrants that have taken place today may cause concern to residents of these homes and their families. We would like to reassure them that this investigation is not as a result of any concerns raised regarding crimes committed against people residing in these homes. I’d like to thank the residents and their families for their continued co-operation and understanding.”
A spokesperson on behalf of Newport City Council and Caerphilly County Borough Council said: “We appreciate families may be concerned as a result of today’s events but we would like to reassure them that their loved ones are safe and their well-being is our priority.”
• Relatives of residents of Dan-y-Graig Nursing Home can call 07790 398488.
• Relatives of residents of Ashville Residential Care Homes can call – 01443 864778.