A Lithuanian man has been arrested on suspicion of being an unlicensed gangmaster following an operation by the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority in Cambridgeshire.

The GLAA executed warrants at several addresses in Wisbech, earlier this week, supported by partners at Cambridgeshire Police, Fenland District Council, the Department for Work and Pensions, the British Red Cross and the Salvation Army.

GLAA officers arrested the 30-year-old man under Section 12 of the Gangmasters (Licensing) Act 2004. He is currently being held at a police station while the investigation continues.

A total of 13 Lithuanian nationals were found during the raids and are assisting the GLAA with its enquires. The GLAA said the British Red Cross team is helping them with any practical or emotional support.

The GLAA is a Non-Departmental Public Body governed by an independent Board. The GLAA licencing programme regulates businesses who provide workers to the fresh produce supply chain and horticulture industry, to make sure they meet the employment standards required by law. Employment agencies, labour providers or gangmasters who provides workers to the Agriculture, Horticulture, Shellfish gathering, or any associated processing and packaging sectors, need a GLAA licence.