A man has been charged with a modern slavery offence and possession of a weapon which releases noxious liquid.

Police stormed a property in Scrathing Lane, Kirdford, on June 9 and found a 62-year-old who reported being the victim of modern slavery.

Officers say he was immediately taken to a safe place and protective measures remain ongoing.

Ryan Cahill, 29, of Dollis Valley Drive, Barnet, was arrested in Hertfordshire on June 22 and charged with the following offences: holding a person in slavery or servitude, being concerned in the production of cannabis; possession of a weapon designed or adapted for the discharge of a noxious liquid, namely ammonia, burglary at Co-Op in Market Square, Petworth, on January 20, 2023, burglary at Sainsbury’s in Stane Street, Codmore Hill, on January 31, 2023, burglary at Co-Op in Market Square, Petworth, on March 6, 2023 and theft of a cash machine in Fitzalan Road, Horsham, on March 15, 2023.

He was remanded in custody to appear before Brighton Magistrates Court on June 24, where the case was adjourned until Lewes Crown Court on July 21.

He remains further remanded in custody in the meantime.