The Police Service of Northern Ireland has released the second episode of its new podcast series, PSNI Beyond the Badge, shining a light on human trafficking.

The 10-part series launched last week and returns today, Wednesday 14 October, on all major platforms. It offers listeners first-hand insights from officers and staff, sharing stories beyond the uniform and discussing the challenges of modern policing.

Titled Human Trafficking: Recognising Exploitation, this episode is hosted by Lata Sharma and features Detective Inspector Rachel Miskelly and Detective Sergeant Andy Hull from the Organised Crime Branch. Listen here: psni-beyondthebadge.podbean.com/

The release coincides with Anti-Slavery Week across the UK (12–18 October), during which PSNI is highlighting common indicators of modern slavery and human trafficking on its social media channels and reaching out to victims with support.

The detectives explore the scale of the crime, affecting 27 million people worldwide, 61% of them women and girls, and stress that exploitation is not confined to distant countries but also occurs in Northern Ireland. The episode recounts the case of Caitlin Hanna and 12 other local women who were targeted by a network of older men who preyed on their vulnerability for sexual gratification. The officers express pride in the victims for bravely cooperating with the investigation and finding the courage to rebuild their lives.

Rachel 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."

Andy is keen to ensure that listeners know the signs that a vulnerable person may be being trafficked, and emphasises the difference that information they provide to police can make to investigations: "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."

Welcoming the episode, Detective Chief Superintendent Emma Neill, Head of PSNI's Organised Crime Branch, said: "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."