Human trafficking probe launched after 'distressed' girl, 12, found in street in Kent

Burton Road: The girl was found in the street by a member of the public
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Tom Marshall24 October 2015
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A human trafficking probe has been launched after a “distressed” 12-year-old girl was found alone in a street in Kent.

Police have appealed for information after the suspected trafficking victim was found “visibly distressed” in Burton Road, Ashford, by a member of the public.

It had been raining but she was wearing only a jumper when she was found on Tuesday, October 6, at about 8.30pm.

Detective Constable Christopher Brett, from Kent Police, said the girl was now being cared for as he appealed for witnesses to come forward.

He said: “We are keen to hear from anyone who saw this girl in the Ashford area on October 6.

“It had been raining; she was wearing a red jumper and was visibly distressed. I’d like to hear from anyone who may either know her, or perhaps saw her getting out of a vehicle.

“The girl is now safe and being cared for. Thankfully the intervention of the member of the public who found this girl has potentially prevented a vulnerable child from being exploited.

“Kent Police takes incidents of this nature seriously and is making more referrals of trafficked victims to support services than ever before.”

The girl was found about two miles from the Eurostar terminal in Ashford.

Concerns have previously been raised about child traffickers exploiting Eurostar, though police made no mention of the international rail link in their appeal.

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