‘It could be happening near you’ – PSNI warns of hidden human trafficking victims across Northern Ireland
Detective Sergeant Andy Hull, and Detective Inspector Rachel Miskelly, pictured with host of the PSNI's new podcast series, Beyond the Badge – Lara Sharma
Wednesday 14 October 2026
Human trafficking and modern slavery could be happening in communities across Northern Ireland, with police warning that victims may be suffering exploitation and abuse in plain sight, unable to speak up or escape those controlling them.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) is urging the public to recognise suspicious behaviour and report concerns, stressing that information from ordinary members of the community could help bring an end to someone's exploitation.
The warning comes during Anti-Slavery Week, running from 12 to 18 October, as two detectives from the PSNI's Organised Crime Branch reveal the realities of trafficking and the challenges of identifying and protecting victims.
Exploitation hidden in local communities
Detective Inspector Rachel Miskelly and Detective Sergeant Andy Hull discuss the issue in the latest episode of the PSNI's new podcast series, Beyond the Badge, released today, Wednesday 14 October.
The episode, entitled ‘Human Trafficking: Recognising Exploitation’, examines how victims can be subjected to sexual exploitation, forced labour and domestic servitude, often without those around them recognising what is happening.
Detective Inspector Miskelly said:
“We’ve had a number of large operations over the last few years and it’s becoming more prevalent. Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking focuses on sexual exploitation, but also covers labour exploitation and domestic servitude. This is something that is hidden in plain sight.”
The officers emphasise that trafficking is not confined to distant countries but is, in their words, “very much alive in Northern Ireland”.
The devastating impact on victims
One of the cases explored in the podcast involves Caitlin Hanna and 12 other local women who were victims of a network of older men who exploited their vulnerability for sexual gratification.
The detectives reflect on the experiences of the women and the courage required to co-operate with a police investigation into their abuse.
They also speak about their pride in the victims for assisting investigators and finding the strength to rebuild their lives.
The case illustrates how vulnerable people can be targeted and exploited, and why recognising abuse and supporting those affected are central to tackling trafficking.
The officers also discuss the wider scale of the problem, citing figures indicating that human trafficking affects 27 million people worldwide, 61% of whom are women and girls.
Public urged to trust their instincts
Detective Sergeant Hull believes members of the public can play a crucial role in identifying potential victims, even when they do not have direct evidence of exploitation.
He urged people not to dismiss concerns about behaviour that appears suspicious or suggests someone may be under another person's control.
“Everyone has a gut instinct, and they need to listen to that. Pick up the phone and report (suspicious behaviour) or use one of the anonymous online reporting tools.”
Police are particularly concerned about people who may be unable to seek help themselves because they are being controlled, threatened or exploited.
Information from neighbours, colleagues or others who encounter a potentially vulnerable person could provide investigators with an important starting point.
Police appeal to those experiencing exploitation
Detective Chief Superintendent Emma Neill, Head of the PSNI's Organised Crime Branch, said the awareness campaign was intended both to encourage public reporting and to reach people currently experiencing abuse.
“We’re delighted to have the opportunity to highlight this important issue and would appeal to anyone who may suspect that someone is being controlled in this way and can’t speak up, to do the right thing.
“Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking can happen anywhere, and it could be happening near you. We all have a part to play, and your support could end the misery of a victim living right next door. If you are being exploited - please come forward to us. We will listen to you, we will respect you and we will believe you.”
Listen to the podcast
The episode is the second instalment of the PSNI's new 10-part podcast series, Beyond the Badge, which launched last week.
Hosted by Lata Sharma, the series features officers and police staff discussing the experiences, investigations and challenges behind modern policing.
The latest episode, ‘Human Trafficking: Recognising Exploitation’, is available from today on podcast platforms and can be accessed directly at:
Or search ‘PSNI Beyond the Badge’ on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
Throughout Anti-Slavery Week, the PSNI will also share information across its social media channels about recognising potential signs of exploitation and the support available to victims.
The central message from detectives is that human trafficking is not necessarily something happening elsewhere. It can exist within ordinary communities, and recognising that possibility may be the first step towards helping someone escape abuse.
