Gavin Hopkins and Joel Quince traveled from the Philippines to work as deckhands with TN Trawlers. An investigation by the BBC revealed that workers from various countries were potentially trafficked into the UK to work for a family-owned Scottish fishing firm. Thirty-five men from the Philippines, Ghana, India, and Sri Lanka were identified as victims of modern slavery between 2012 and 2020.
These workers were employed by TN Trawlers and its sister companies, owned by the Nicholson family in Annan, Scotland. Despite denials from the TN Group, allegations of modern slavery and human trafficking persisted. Two criminal investigations were conducted, but no cases came to trial.
Joel Quince, excited to work in the UK, found himself working long hours on the Philomena vessel, earning less than minimum wage. He, along with other seafarers, described grueling work conditions, lack of proper clothing, food, and water. Some even worked onshore in violation of their visa terms.
Several incidents of mistreatment and abuse were reported, including Joel’s head injury on the Philomena. The Fisherman’s Mission provided support to Joel and others who sought help. Police operations and investigations into TN Trawlers revealed a history of legal issues and non-compliance.
The Home Office recognized victims of modern slavery from TN Trawlers, offering support and assistance. Despite these revelations, TN Trawlers continued recruiting workers, leading to more cases of exploitation. The cycle of abuse and mistreatment persisted, with workers like Gideon Mensah from Ghana and Vishal Sharma from India facing similar hardships.