The four Vietnamese men killed in a mill fire in Oldham earlier this year were “likely to have been victims of modern slavery” police have said.

The partial remains of Uoc Van Nguyen, 31, Cuong Van Chu, 39, Duong Van Nguyen, 29, and Nam Thanh Lee, 21, were found at the site of Bismark House Mill, Bower Street, in July 2022 after a fire broke out in May.

Inquests into the deaths of the four victims, who were formally identified using DNA samples from family members in Vietnam, have been adjourned until April next year, pending the conclusion of the search and criminal investigation.

Police have now said the men were “likely to have been the victims of modern slavery” and that evidence has been recovered that suggests “cannabis was being cultivated” in part of the mill.

Speaking to the Manchester Evening News, Detective Superintendent Lewis Hughes, Senior Identification Manager and Force Lead for Disaster Victim Identification on Operation Logan, said it was “safe to say” that police believe the men “were likely to have been the victims of modern slavery”.

DS Hughes also confirmed that the force was investigating other lines of enquiry and that police have “recovered evidence that cannabis was being cultivated in part of the factory”.

The detective said that GMP is also investigating “modern slavery offences” and “organised crime offences” as well as the potential that the men were “the victims of a homicide”.

He added that police are still “looking for any evidence about what may have caused the fire or who may be responsible” and that the investigation is expected to finish before February.

In August two people arrested on suspicion of manslaughter and other offences in connection with the case were released on bail.

Anyone who would like to remain anonymous can share information via the independent charity – Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Anyone with information should contact Greater Manchester Police via 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.

International callers can contact GMP via +441618725050. Information can also be submitted in English or Vietnamese via the Major Incident Public Portal: Public Portal (mipp.police.uk).