Seven arrested in child exploitation probe

Seven people have been arrested as part of an investigation into suspected child criminal exploitation.

Staffordshire Police said drugs and cash were seized after 14 addresses were searched on Thursday.

Three men, aged 19, 35, and 44, were arrested on suspicion of intent to commit human trafficking and drugs offences after officers searched properties in Stone, Blythe Bridge, Barlaston and Stoke-on-Trent.

Three 16-year-old boys and one aged 15 were arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of a Class A drug.

Two of the 16-year-olds were also arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of Class B drugs.

All seven have been bailed with conditions while the investigation continues.

"The operation forms part of our child exploitation team's ongoing efforts to investigate adults suspected of coercing vulnerable children in local communities into criminality," the Staffordshire force said.

Det Insp Kirsty Oldfield, from the force's public protection unit, added: "Vulnerable children in our communities should not be subjected to coercion by criminal gangs."

Follow BBC Stoke & Staffordshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.