Men trafficking women into the UK to work in the sex industry were the target of a police raid on an address in the Isle of Dogs this morning.

Detectives searched a property in Peninsula Square at around 6am in connection with an organised criminal network they think could be responsible for the trafficking of hundreds of women into the country, mainly from Hungary.

Raids were also carried out on seven other properties across London, as officers seized computers, cash, travel documents and account registers.

Four men were arrested in the other properties raided on suspicion of trafficking for sexual exploitation.

Det Insp Kevin Hyland is leading the clampdown on women being trafficked into London to work in the sex trade.

“We believe that many women have been brought into the country having been told they will be given jobs, only to then be forced to work as prostitutes, with some being physically abused and raped in the process”, he said.

The investigation is ongoing.

Police are urging victims of trafficking to call their free 24-hour helpline on 0800 783 2589.