POLICE have arrested seven more people as part of a major investigation into sexual abuse.
Northumbria Police is running Operation Sanctuary to look into allegations that vulnerable women and girls have been abused on Tyneside.
The total number of arrests made under Operation Sanctuary now stands at 86.
The total number of people charged with various sexual offences in connection with the investigation is now 12.
All those charged are in the court system.
Officers continue to work with other agencies to speak to all the complainants to establish the circumstances and provide appropriate support.
Police are asking everyone to continue to be vigilant and report any information they have or incidents they have concerns about to officers.
Anyone with any information or concerns is asked to contact Northumbria Police on 101, extension 69191, quoting reference Operation Sanctuary, or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Advice and support is also available via Victim Support on 0845 277 0977 or Childline on 0800 1111.
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