Dozens of foreign workers may have been trafficked into the UK to work for TN Trawlers, a small, family-owned fishing company based in Annan, Scotland, reports BBC. 

According to data from the Home Office, 35 men -- hailing from the Philippines, Ghana, India, and Sri Lanka -- who worked for TN Trawlers and its sister companies were recognized as victims of modern slavery after being referred to the Home Office between 2012 and 2020.

The TN Group, owned by the Nicholson family, has denied any wrongdoing. The company asserts that it treats its workers well and pays them fairly.

The company has been the subject of two long-running criminal investigations. However, no cases of human trafficking or modern slavery have been brought to trial. Some of the affected men reportedly waited years to provide evidence.

A 2012 police briefing also highlighted ongoing concerns about TN Trawlers. The briefing noted that six Filipino fishermen had swum ashore from TN boats, reporting mistreatment and exploitation. This incident prompted the launch of Operation Alto by police in Dumfries and Galloway, an investigation focused on human trafficking and labor abuse at TN Trawlers.

The investigation into TN Trawlers has also led to 18 former employees being referred to the Home Office’s National Referral Mechanism. This system is designed to identify and support victims of human trafficking. 

In 2007, TN Trawlers was prosecuted for illegal fishing operations, resulting in a substantial financial penalty. Tom Nicholson and the company were ordered to pay £473,000 ($613,254) under proceeds of crime laws for their unlawful catches, which were worth hundreds of thousands of pounds.

Additionally, between 2009 and 2011, TN Trawlers faced further penalties, including nearly £150,000 in fines and costs, after the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency discovered numerous defects and safety breaches on their vessels.