Children among nine arrested in police investigation into sexual exploitation of teenagers

Officers carry out series of raids in Portsmouth and Havant

Suspects arrested include a 13-year-old boy (PA)

Nine people, including children, have been arrested as part of an ongoing police investigation into the sexual exploitation of teenagers.

Officers carried out a series of raids in Portsmouth and Havant on Tuesday.

The suspects arrested are a 13-year-old boy from Portsmouth, a 14-year-old boy and two 15-year-olds from Havant, and two 17-year-old boys and three men aged 21, 23 and 29 from Portsmouth.

Hampshire Police said a number of victims were being supported by the local authority.

Maggie Blyth, Portsmouth district commander superintendent, said: "This investigation involves specialist teams across the force and it will take us some time to understand the details.

"Gathering details from victims is a delicate process and they are being supported through this. This support will be ongoing.

"We'd encourage anyone who thinks they may be able to help us to contact us, or, if they are more comfortable, a social worker, support worker or someone else trusted."

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting Operation Skycap or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.