Green Party councillor arrested over modern slavery

A Green Party councillor has been arrested on suspicion of modern slavery offences.

Councillor Sohail Asghar, who represents the party on Lancashire county council, was arrested in Accrington, Lancashire, following allegations of modern slavery and assault.

He has now been suspended by the Green Party.

A spokesman for Lancashire Police said: “We have arrested three people as part of an investigation into alleged modern slavery in Accrington.

“A 29-year-old man from Accrington has been arrested on slavery, servitude and forced or compulsory labour and common assault; a 51-year-old woman from Accrington has been arrested on slavery, servitude and forced or compulsory labour; and a 55-year-old man from Accrington has been arrested on slavery, servitude and forced or compulsory labour and making threats to kill.

“The arrests were made at a property in Accrington on 6 November and all three suspects have been bailed.”

Mr Asghar and the Green Party were approached for comment.

He was photographed in April with Zack Polanski, the leader of the Greens, and was elected to the council in May.

Mr Asghar, 29, remains an independent councillor.

Councillor Gina Dowding, leader of the Green group on Lancashire county council, told the Lancashire Telegraph: “Councillor Asghar has voluntarily given up the Green Party whip because there is an investigation.

“This will remain the case until the investigation is completed.”

Joan West, vice-chairman of the Hyndburn Green Party, added: “Sohail Asghar has given up the whip at County Hall for personal reasons.”

[Source: Daily Telegraph]