EIGHT men thought to be the victims of people traffickers at Semington have been taken to safety and three arrests have been made.

There were concerns regarding the welfare of a number of Eastern European men at the site and Wiltshire Police executed a warrant early this morning.

The eight potential victims have now been taken to a place of safety and will be provided medical care and support.

Three men, aged 28, 33 and 37, from Semington have been arrested on suspicion of offences relating to human trafficking and are in custody at Melksham Police Station.

A police spokesman said: "We have a number of interpreters to assist us and the medical team to help ensure that we can properly meet their needs.

"This is a multi-agency operation involving Wiltshire Police, Wiltshire Council, British Red Cross, NHS England, Medvivo, The Salvation Army and UKHTC (UK Human Trafficking Centre) with the aim to ensure the welfare of the men and tackle any illegal activity."

Maggie Rae, corporate director at Wiltshire Council, said: “We are working closely with the police and other agencies to ensure those who need support from the council following this operation receive it.

"The welfare of those affected is our main concern and we are doing everything we can to make sure they feel safe, looked after and have a comfortable place to rest and sleep.”

A NHS England spokesman said: “NHS England is supporting the police with its operation. We have commissioned medical and voluntary services in partnership with the local authority to ensure people’s health and welfare.”

Colleen Cleevely, operations director for the British Red Cross in Wiltshire, Avon and Gloucestershire, said: “The British Red Cross was called in by Wiltshire Police to provide assistance to people being supported in a place of safety following an investigation into potential exploitation.

“Our trained volunteers are on hand to provide the men with practical necessities such as food and drink, clothing, hygiene kits and blankets, as well as emotional support.

“The Red Cross works with the emergency services and other voluntary organisations to provide assistance to vulnerable people in times of crisis.”

Major Anne Read, The Salvation Army's Anti-Trafficking Response Co-ordinator, said: “The Salvation Army operates a Government contract to provide vital help and support to adult victims of modern slavery.

"Once identified as victims of modern slavery, they will be offered access to the specialised support we provide to give them the very best chance to try and recover from this pitiless exploitation.”

Supt Sean Memory said: "The welfare of the victims is paramount and medical care and support is being provided for them.

"At this stage we cannot release more information regarding the investigation but I want to reassure people in the local area that we are committed to ensuring that these vulnerable members of the community are properly looked after and we will take robust action regarding any criminal activity."

Anyone who has concerns can contact their local Neighbourhood Policing Team via 101.