In an operation which took place early yesterday morning in various localities around Malta, eleven people were arrested, allegedly involved in a circle of organised crime of human trafficking.

Following a number of weeks of investigations and information gathering, the operation, which was led by the Vulnerable Victims Squad and the Police force’s Financial Crimes Investigations Department, started at around 0600hrs.

With the assistance of other sections of the Police force, raids were carried out simultaneously, in Birkirkara, Gzira, St Paul’s Bay, Siggiewi, Fgura, Gudja, Paola, Zebbug and Senglea.

A total of eight Maltese men and women were arrested, as well as a Romanian man and woman.

From searches carried out at the mentioned places, a considerable amount of cash was seized, as well as various valuables.

An inquiry is being conducted by Magistrate Dr Philip Galea Farrugia LL.D.

All persons are being detained at the Police lock-up in Floriana.

Investigations are still ongoing.