FIVE Romanians were arrested by Wiltshire Police in Swindon on Tuesday as part of a crackdown on East European prostitution in the town.

These arrests were part of a long-running investigation into prostitution and the influx of East European women in Swindon.

Officers swooped on five addresses after building a catalogue of evidence drawn from the sex adverts being listed online.

Links have also been established between those setting up the online sex worker profiles and the trafficking of women into the UK.

Two men, aged 26 and 37, and three women, aged 21, 22 and 26, were arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the control of prostitution for gain and later bailed pending further enquiries.

Warrants were executed in Chandos Close, Tamworth Drive, Oakwood Road, Kent Road and Stafford Street after a long-running investigation.

The quintet were taken to Gablecross police station, where they were interviewed with the assistance of a Romanian police officer, who translated where necessary.

In addition to the arrests, a quantity of cash was seized, as well as a number of mobile phones and financial paperwork believed to be associated.

Approximately 30 officers and police staff from the force took part in the day of action which was led by Detective Sergeant Phil Walker.

“This day of activity was initiated by the human exploitation team as a result of a large amount of intelligence-led police work in relation to an influx of East European females into Swindon,”

he said.

“The intelligence identified that a number of women were advertising themselves as sex workers on various websites.

“Further research identified a link between the profiles being created and suspects who appeared to be involved in setting up the profiles and in the transportation of the women into the UK.

“All the people involved hail from Romania.

“We would like to urge members of the public to report any suspicious activity in and around the addresses targeted during yesterday’s day of activity, to contact us immediately via 101.”

Anyone with any information relevant to the case should call DS Walker on 101.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously if preferred.