Detectives have charged some six people in connection with a drugs supply network - including several in relation to modern slavery.

Kent Police made a number of arrests in July relating to the distribution of heroin and crack cocaine in Maidstone

A number of suspects have since been charged with both drug supply offences as well as modern slavery.

Peace Alaka, 18, of The Grove in Gravesend was charged with modern slavery and being concerned in the supply of heroin and crack cocaine.

Gavin Bond, 34, of Mote Road in Maidstone was also charged with being concerned in the supply of heroin and crack cocaine, and permitting the use of premises for the supply of heroin and crack cocaine.

Two 17-year-old boys - from Hemel Hempstead and Bexleyheath - were charged with modern slavery and heroin and crack cocaine supply, with the former also charged with being in possession of a bladed article.

Additionally, Andrew Cooke, 61, of Felderland Close, Maidstone, was charged with modern slavery and being concerned in the supply of heroin and crack cocaine.

He was also charged with breaching his Sexual Offences Prevention Order.

The suspects have all been bailed to appear before Maidstone Magistrates’ Court on October 26.

Investigators had previously also charged Reis Bhandal, on 20 July, with modern slavery and being concerned in the supply of heroin and crack cocaine.

The 18-year-old, of Old Road West, Gravesend, was remanded to appear before Woolwich Crown Court on October 19.