HUMAN trafficking has come under the spotlight in Oxford after the county’s first conviction for the crime was secured against two pimps.

Campaigners from Oxford Community Against Trafficking (OXCAT) now believe there is a wider trafficking problem in the city which remains underground.

Anastassios Papas, 42, from Iffley Road, East Oxford, trafficked Eastern European women to become prostitutes in Oxford.

A second 49-year-old man, from Bicester, who cannot be named, was also found guilty of two counts of trafficking women into the UK, and within the UK, for sexual exploitation at Oxford Crown Court this week.

Both face prison sentences. However, Papas, who also uses the alias Mark White, is on the run.

Last night, detectives said the case had been a wake-up call to all agencies in the county who have now vowed to work together to stamp out the problem.

A spokesman for OXCAT, who wanted to remain anonymous, said: “We believe there is a problem in Oxford, though it is probably not as apparent, compared to bigger cities where the numbers involved may be greater.

“However, it may be more extensive than we realise because this is a crime which thrives on being hidden.

“What this case proves is that trafficking can happen anywhere in Britain, even in places which seem safe.”

Police, OXCAT, and Oxford City Council are among the organisations who will work together to support victims, raise awareness and develop training for agencies which deal with trafficked women.

They also plan to monitor all escort agencies in the county to make sure people who work for them are there of their own free will and are not under-age.

Det Insp Simon Morton, who led the investigation, said: “This is a significant case for Oxfordshire as it’s the first of its type in the county.

“Human trafficking is the modern version of slavery, and I am pleased that in convicting these two men we have uncovered and dismantled this network.

“This is a wake-up call to all agencies in the county that this exploitation can be happening under our noses and reminds us all that we need to be vigilant.”

A conference was held in June at Oxford’s Town Hall to raise the profile of people trafficking in the county and more than 100 representatives met to discuss action.

Richard Adams, Oxford City Council’s community safety officer, said: “This is a horrible crime targeting the most vulnerable.

“Working together with partners we will raise awareness across the county of human trafficking in our communities.”

Anyone with information about human trafficking in Oxfordshire should call police on 08458 505505 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

To contact Oxcat, call 07812997888 or email info@oxcat.org.uk