A CAMPAIGNER against modern slavery has urged people in Gwynedd to be on the look-out for victims of human trafficking and modern slavery.

The plea came from Wanjiku Ngotho, regional director of BAWSO, which provides specialist services for black and minority ethnic communities across the region.

BAWSO was recognised as Anti-Slavery Champions at North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Arfon Jones’ Community Awards at the Kinmel Manor Hotel in Abergele.

Ms Ngotho, originally from Kenya, leads a team which supports up to 150 people from black and minority ethnic groups at any one time.

She was a victim of fear and isolation after years of abuse at the hands of an ex-partner.

Ms Ngotho said: “The problem of modern slavery and human trafficking is widespread in north Wales.

“We work very closely with North Wales Police and our people often have years of experience including experience of the kind of abuse the victims themselves have suffered and they understand all too well what they have gone through.”

Arfon Jones has made the fight against modern slavery and human trafficking one of the main priorities in his Police and Crime Plan.

He said: “It is vital to increase public awareness of one of the most insidious crimes faced by society and we are working hard with our partners to expose and tackle this crime, protect its victims and bring offenders to justice.

“To do this we need the communities of north Wales to support us, to look out for evidence of it and to contact the police if you have concerns.”

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