ONE man has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit rape and human trafficking following a series of raids in the North-East.

A 54-year-old man is the latest in a total of 17 arrests connected to an investigation into the exploitation of vulnerable women and young people.

The major operation was sparked by a young woman from Teesside telling police she had been trafficked around the country and subjected to serious sex offices, including rape.

The 54-year-old man arrested on Thursday morning by Cleveland Police remains in custody on suspicion of conspiracy to commit rape and human trafficking in the Hartlepool area.

A 38-year-old man was also arrested in February on suspicion of conspiracy to commit rape and human trafficking in the Stockton area. He has since been released under investigation.

Fifteen other men were arrested, one in December 2016, one in January 2017, and the rest in January this year, during a series of raids in Stockton, Middlesbrough and Sheffield.

Investigating officer, Detective Inspector Chris Stone, said: “Seventeen arrests have now been made in connection with this ongoing investigation.

“We would urge any victims to contact police or any of our partner agencies, who can offer support services available in the local area.”

Cleveland Police are working closely with the Stockton-based charity, A Way Out, which is an organisation which tackles and prevents exploitation of vulnerable women and young people.

A Way Out address the need for safety of those at risk and supports and empowers them to break free from exploitative situations.

Sarah McManus, chief executive officer from A Way Out, said: “Here at A Way Out we believe that all women, young people and families should be free to live healthy, whole and safe lives, free from addiction, poverty and exploitation.

“We provide confidential specialist support built around the needs of the women at their own pace.

"We also offer a non-judgemental place with honest, friendly workers who each have a sole focus of keeping women safe.

“A Way Out provides the space for women to be listened to and to be taken seriously and we would urge any woman who believes they have been affected by sexual abuse and exploitation to come and see us or call us directly on 07538-496309, Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm.

“We promise to do everything in our power to keep you safe, prevent further harm and to give you all the support and help that you need.”