A statement this morning from the GLAA reveals five addresses in Luton have been searched as part of the work led by Bedfordshire Police, Luton Council and the GLAA.

At around 5am yesterday [24 July] police executed a warrant in New Bedford Road. Three men were arrested on suspicion of arranging or facilitating the travel of another person with a view to exploitation. Soon afterwards, Luton Council executed warrants under the Housing Act at properties in Ashton Road, Colin Road and Fermor Crescent.

Officers identified a number of serious defects at each property and the Council’s investigations are continuing.

Police searched another address in Surrey Street.

The warrants follow an investigation into a suspected organised crime group believed to be trafficking people into the UK and forcing them into work.

The operation was also supported by the Eastern Region Special Operations Unit and the National Crime Agency, with more than 60 officers and staff involved from all the different agencies.

• Comment below on this story. You can also tweet us to tell us your thoughts or share this story with a friend. Our editorial email is [email protected]