Six women have been safeguarded and six people arrested after a multi-agency operation to combat human trafficking and sexual exploitation.

Three addresses in Luton either suspected of housing brothels or being linked to a wider organised crime network behind them were subject to warrants by police yesterday afternoon (Thursday).

All of the women, who were from Romania, have been offered safeguarding support through the national referral mechanism for victims of modern slavery.

They were taken to a reception centre in the county and are continuing to work with specialist support services.

Specialist support workers from local charity Azalea, Luton Council public health’s vulnerable women’s group and sexual health services joined us on the operation, with more than 30 professionals involved in total.

Three men from Luton, one man from Kent and two women from Luton were arrested on suspicion of keeping a brothel.

All six remain in police custody while enquiries continue.