🚨 Police identify suspected trafficking victims at Newport spaBusiness operator wanted as investigators say more charges are likely 👇

Police in Newport, New Hampshire, say they identified suspected human trafficking victims while searching a local wellness spa as part of an investigation into possible trafficking and prostitution. Local and federal authorities executed a search warrant Thursday at Harmony Wellness Spa on John Stark Highway, gathering evidence from the business as the investigation continues.

The case began earlier in September after Newport police received an anonymous tip from someone who said they got a "weird feeling" while inside the spa. Investigators then reviewed surveillance footage and spoke with people leaving the business. Police Chief Alex Lee said that work eventually led investigators to suspect criminal activity was taking place there.

The Newport Police Department, deputies from the Sullivan County Sheriff's Office and federal agents from Homeland Security participated in Thursday's search. Police said suspected human trafficking victims were identified during the investigation, but authorities had not announced any arrests at the spa as of Thursday.

Investigators are now searching for Jiang Xiu Yu, 50, who police identified as the operator of the business. Authorities have obtained an arrest warrant for Yu, who police said will likely face charges related to prostitution. Police also said additional arrests and charges are expected as investigators continue reviewing evidence gathered during the search.

Lee said a recently enacted New Hampshire law gives authorities another way to pursue people responsible for businesses or properties where trafficking occurs. Under the law, an owner or lessee can potentially be held accountable for knowingly allowing trafficking-related activity on the property.

The investigation remains active, and authorities have not publicly detailed the number of suspected victims identified or announced charges against anyone else connected with the spa.