POLICE have arrested six men as part of an investigation into images of child abuse.

Officers swooped on Tuesday morning at two addresses in Newton Aycliffe and one in Belmont, Durham.

Three men, aged 21, 56 and 64, were arrested.

Today, more searches were carried out in Bowburn, Esh Winning and Seaham and three more men were arrested, aged 45, 24 and 48. All six were detained on suspicion of possessing and distributing indecent images.

Those arrested on Tuesday have been released on bail pending further enquiries. Those arrested today are still in custody, waiting to be interviewed.

Laptop computers, hard drives and other computer equipment has been seized, along with mobile phones.

The operation has been led by Durham Police's e-safety unit and involves the National Crime Agency and the North East Region Special Operations Unit.

Information was also supplied via from the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP).

Detective Sergeant Steve Days said: “This operation has been planned over a number of weeks and has been based on intelligence from a number of sources. Our actions have concentrated on identifying people we suspect of being involved in the distribution of both still and moving images of child abuse.

“Durham Constabulary will not tolerate this type of activity and will use every investigative means and technology to trace and arrest those involved in this type of offence. Our investigations are vital for the safeguarding of children.”