Several arrests have been made following investigations into suspected brothels.

Police carried out a warrant on a pair of properties in Windmill Street, Gravesend, and Brewer Street, Maidstone last Wednesday (June 26).

It formed part of six coordinated investigations by police forces into the alleged management of brothels.

During these searches, a 45-year-old man was detained at the Gravesend address on suspicion of managing a brothel. He has since been released pending further inquiries.

Around four wraps of suspected class A drugs were seized along with 92 mobile phones, five tablets and various documentation that is believed to be linked to the control of prostitution.

Another five arrests were also made at addresses in Surrey, London, and Manchester including two men and one woman in their 50s.

A 45-year-old man and a 43-year-old woman were released pending further inquiries.

Bo Li, 52, Grove Crescent Road, London, Jai Chen, 51, of Longbridge Way, London, and Hong Wang, 51, of Longbridge Way, London have all since been charged on suspicion of keeping a brothel.

All three were remanded in custody to appear at Medway Magistrates’ Court on June 28.

At the hearing, Mr Chen and Ms Wang were further remanded to appear at Maidstone Crown Court on Friday July 26.

Detective Inspector Stacey Chapman of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate said: “Tackling modern slavery is a priority for Kent Police and we will continue to carry out operations like this one in our relentless pursuit of those whom we believe are responsible for the exploitation of others.

“We are keen to do everything we can to prevent these crimes from happening and protect those who are most at risk.

“Our focus is and always will be the safety of victims and to offer protection and ensure they are safeguarded according to their specific needs.”