Man arrested in Belfast on suspicion of human trafficking

The suspect was arrested after police received a report of a woman being assaulted outside a property on Tuesday evening.

A 36-year-old Eastern European woman is now being assessed as a potential victim of human trafficking.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Bell from the PSNI’s Human Trafficking Unit, said: “Police received a report that a woman was being assaulted outside a property in south Belfast yesterday (Tuesday) evening and our enquiries led us to arrest a 38-year-old man a short time later on suspicion of a number of offences including human trafficking for sexual exploitation, rape and sexual assault.

“These enquiries, including a search of a property in the area are continuing as we work with partner agencies to ensure the woman receives appropriate support and assistance.”

Police are continuing to question the arrested man.