NINE people have been arrested in Nottingham on suspicion of human trafficking, tax credit fraud and money laundering.

The six men and three women, from the Czech Republic and Slovakia, were arrested in raids carried out at addresses in the city on Tuesday night and yesterday.

The investigation is being carried out by Notts Police, HM Revenue & Customs, UK Border Agency and the Department of Work and Pensions.

The men and women are alleged to have illegally claimed over £1m in tax credits. Six addresses were searched and the people were arrested on suspicion of tax credit fraud and money laundering. One of the men was also arrested on suspicion of human trafficking.

Detective Chief Superintendent Ian Waterfield, head of the Force Crime and Intelligence Directorate, said: "The inquiry has taken months and will continue, starting with the search of addresses, and interviews with those detained."

Anyone with information relating to Tax Credit fraud is urged to call the Benefits Anti Fraud Helpline on 0800 854 440.