A POLICE led operation removed 28 people from dangerous premises in Hereford last week.

Targeted multi-agency raids aimed to tackle a range of issues as the organisations involved try to protect people from harm and identify issues of modern slavery, exploitation of vulnerable people and human trafficking.

West Mercia Police said one person was arrested for immigration offences.

The co-ordinated visits were part of a joint operation between West Mercia Police, Hereford and Worcester Fire & Rescue Service, Home Office Immigration and Herefordshire Council Environmental Health and Housing Enforcement.

Sergeant Duncan Reynolds said: "When we receive information from the community and combine it with our own gathered intelligence about establishments where there is concern over health, fire and welfare of people and staff, we act.

"Working closely with partners we are able to be decisive in our intentions to protect people from harm as well as identify several criminalities.

"In all, we were able to remove 28 people from dangerous premises which included the successful safeguarding of children and share an improved picture on known organised crime activities with our partners.

"This operation demonstrates the effectiveness of our partnership working in Hereford and the successful interventions which ultimately protect members of our community.

"It is important that people running businesses in Herefordshire comply with the law, fire safety and council regulations for operating businesses."