ACCUSATIONS slavery is taking place in Essex are being investigated by the police.

The force is currently looking at five reported incidents in the county.

Specific details have not been released because of concerns the ongoing investigations could be compromised.

However all involve alleged degrading and inhumane treatment within the county.

Police and crime commissioner Nick Alston raised concerns about modern slavery in Essex.

He said: “We are finding the problem exists far closer to home than we’d ever imagined.

“I know that there are five slavery-related investigations being worked on by Essex Police at this time.

"I am also aware that in the last three months the force has received and acted upon several other pieces of intelligence concerning potential victims.

“I implore everyone to take time to learn a bit more about modern slavery and crucially to report any concerns to the police or their local authority.

“The more eyes and ears we have, the more people we can save.”