VIGILANCE about child abuse and exploitation is still necessary in Swindon according to Wiltshire Police.

Officers have held a fortnight’s operation to disrupt county lines activity in the town, and they want people to report any instances where they suspect children are being exploited or abused in any way.

Police made arrests of people they believe were using children to sell illegal drugs on their behalf and obtained a closure order at a property where county lines activity was suspected.

Coun Mary Martin, Swindon Borough Council’s cabinet member for children said: “I encourage residents to familiarise themselves with the signs of child abuse and exploitation.

“Residents should keep an eye out so that they can spot it within their community.”

Some common indicators include, missing school or being disruptive in class, isolation from peers or social networks, unexplained acquisition of material possessions and relationships with older individuals and groups.

Abuse can be physical, sexual or emotional.

Supt Andy Fee, head of public protection at Wiltshire Police said: “Child exploitation can happen in many different forms and it can happen to anyone from all different backgrounds, and both boys and girls. “

Residents are urged to either contact the Council by emailing swindonmash@swindon.gov.uk, calling 01793 466903 during office hours or 101 outside of office hours if they are concerned about someone they know, or to ring 999 if they believe a child is in immediate danger.