TWO people have been arrested in Crewe and Nantwich following a string of raids related to an investigation into human trafficking and sexual exploitation.

On Wednesday, May 20, Cheshire Police executed a number of warrants were carried out at properties in Nantwich, Crewe, London, Bristol, Stoke, and Preston.

A 49-year-old man and a 37-year-old woman have been arrested at properties in Nantwich and Crewe in connection with the investigation.

A number of women, believed to have been brought to the UK from Eastern Europe, were found inside the properties.

They have been removed from the properties and are being spoken to by specially trained officers.

Detective Inspector David Browne from Cheshire Police, who is leading on the operation, said: “Human trafficking and sexual exploitation stems from organised crime and targets some of the most vulnerable people in our society.

“The action taken shows the combined efforts of a number of agencies in tackling this issue.

“The strike phase is the result of months of hard work by a dedicated team of officers from Cheshire Police.”

The operation, led by Cheshire Police, involved a number of different agencies and other police forces across the UK Including The Met, Avon and Somerset Police, Staffordshire Police and Lancashire Police along with the National Crime Agency.

Det Insp Browne added: “Together we want to send out a strong message that this sort of behaviour will not be tolerated.

“We also hope that it helps to reassure local communities that we are doing everything we can to put a stop to this sort of activity.”

Anyone who may have any information that could assist officers with their enquiries, are urged to speak to a local officer or call Cheshire Police on 101.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.