PSNI investigate modern slavery at NI car washes

Police probing modern slavery at car washes in NI have asked if a cheap wash is worth it.
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The PSNI in Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon spoke out after investigating workers in inappropriate clothing operating at a car washes in Co Armagh.

On Facebook the police said: “The £5 car wash down the road? Quick handy does a good job! However some workers are earning a pittance for working tough, long days and living in an overcrowded housing some are beaten and threatened with their identifying documents taken.

“What is the true human cost of your local £5 car wash?

PSNI probe modern slavery at car washes in Co Armagh.PSNI probe modern slavery at car washes in Co Armagh.
PSNI probe modern slavery at car washes in Co Armagh.

“Northern Ireland’s hand car washes tend to be competitive with pricing, but some have also been linked to modern slavery.

“Neighbourhood Police in Armagh today conducted checks with Officers from the Human Trafficking Team .

“We observed workers who lacked waterproof boots or trousers, or hi-vis jackets and gloves. “They’re spraying around hydrochloric acid solution for alloy wheels, breathing in the vapour and fumes” . Modern slavery is often hidden in plain sight, happening in our streets, towns and villages.

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“Too often we rush in, give your £5 and drive off. We’re just saying, please stop and think first”

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