Arrests after reports of human trafficking

Dorset Police arrested five people following reports of sexual exploitation

Five people have been arrested after reports of sexual exploitation and human trafficking offences.

Two men and a woman in their 30s, and a woman in her 20s - all from Bournemouth, were arrested on suspicion of modern slavery and money laundering offences.

A fifth man, in his 30s and also from Bournemouth, was arrested on suspicion of possessing a class A drug and possessing a class B drug with intent to supply.

The arrests come after warrants were conducted at a number of addresses on Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning, Dorset Police said.

Cordons were put in place at the addresses as inquiries were carried out and potential evidence was secured.

All five people arrested have been released under investigation while inquiries continue.

Det Insp Amy Wilson said: “We take reported offences relating to sexual exploitation and human trafficking extremely seriously.

"We will continue to take positive action to identify those believed to be involved and safeguard those who are being exploited.

“We would also urge anyone who is the victim of modern slavery offences or any kind of exploitation to please come forward to report it to us, in the knowledge that you will be fully supported and we will thoroughly investigate the matter."