DAWN raids targeted men believed to be responsible for sex attacks and trafficking children for prostitution.

A total of 12 properties were involved in the operations in Waltham Forest, Redbridge, Newham and Barking & Dagenham this morning.

Four men were arrested, including a 23-year-old from Leyton who was suspected of sexual touching, controlling a child prostitute and conspiracy to traffick a female within the UK for sexual exploitation.

The Met has so far identified four victims aged between 16 and 18.

Det Insp Kevin Hyland, of the Trafficking and Prostitution Unit, said: "The victims we have identified so far were all young and vulnerable individuals. Their abusers targeted them for this reason.

"We are working to ensure that all victims we identify during our investigation receive the care and support that they need.

"Our priority is always the safety and wellbeing of the victim. I urge any other victims of this type of crime to report it to police so that they can receive the help they need."