NINE men have been arrested on suspicion of human trafficking and rape following a disturbance at a former Evesham hotel.
Following a call to 999, police attended a disturbance at Riverside Manor in Aldington around 4.50am on Sunday (March 16).
Officers attended and found three females inside the property and suspected that they had been trafficked into the country.
A 30-year-old woman was also arrested on suspicion of human trafficking.
Exterior view of the former Riverside Hotel.
Of the nine men aged 17 to 28, eight have been released under investigation. One man and one woman have been released on police bail.
Inspector Dave Wise, of the Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: “Our initial enquiries suggest the women had been trafficked into the country and immediate steps were taken to ensure they are safe and well.
“We know this incident could be concerning for the local community, and yesterday officers were in the area to offer reassurance.
“We want to reassure residents that the incident is unconnected to anyone who resides in the Evesham area, and we do not believe there is wider risk to the local community.
“As always, we encourage residents with concerns to approach an officer or reach out to your local SNT.”
The Observer understands that the operation involved five police cars, two police vans and between 20 and 30 officers.
The property, which overlooks the River Avon, was formerly known as the Riverside Hotel and Restaurant and now advertised as a spacious three-roomed holiday let.
