Arrests have been made in relation to human trafficking in Dorset.

Raids were carried out at addresses on Tuesday and Wednesday.

They came as part of an investigation by Dorset Police’s Safeguarding Hub into reports of sexual exploitation and human trafficking offences.

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

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

All five have been released under investigation as enquiries continue.

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

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

“Furthermore, we would urge members of the public to be vigilant of the signs that someone could be being exploited and to report any concerns to police.

“We would urge anyone who has information to report it to us online at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101.

“If a crime is in progress, always call 999.”