A MAN has been charged with conspiracy to kidnap as part of an investigation into slavery.

The 59-year-old-man from the St Mellons area was arrested on 12 August in the Fairwater area of Cardiff and has been bailed to appear before Newport Magistrates Court on 6 October.

The arrest comes as part of Operation Imperial, a police investigation into serious offences against vulnerable adults.

Detective Superintendent Paul Griffiths, who leads the investigation, said: "For over two years now, the Operation Imperial team has been investigating very serious offences committed against some of the most vulnerable people in our communities. We have set up a dedicated number - 01495 745443- which will be answered by staff working on the investigation since it began. This will enable anyone who has any suspicions or concerns about people being exploited for their labour or kept against their will to call us with information so we can investigate. This number will be staffed during office hours and an answerphone facility is available as well. If your call is urgent, then please use the 999 emergency service”