Suspected modern slavery victim thought to have lived in six-foot shed for 40 years

58-year-old man found at Carlisle site in dawn raid

Specialist officers have rescued a man who is believed to have lived in a six-foot shed for 40 years.

The 58-year-old was found at a site in Carlisle in a dawn raid on Wednesday by officers from the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA).

A 79-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of modern slavery offences and an investigation is under way.

“The operation has been supported by specialist officers from the National Crime Agency, the Cumbria Housing Department who are investigating possible health and safety breaches, and officers from Cumbria Police,” the GLAA said in a statement.

“Modern slavery exists in a whole range of forms across the UK. If you suspect someone is being exploited or abused, please do not hesitate to get in contact with us.”

The potential modern slavery victim was taken by specialist trauma officers to be medically examined and assessed, said the GLAA.

Press Association contributed to this report