A man and two women from Swanley were arrested as part of a two-day police raid that targeted domestic abuse suspects.

The 40-year-old man and a 42-year-old woman were arrested in Leechcroft Avenue on June 9.

Both have been bailed, pending further enquiries, until June 23.

The next day, a 34-year-old woman was arrested in Azalea Drive. She was granted street bail until July 14.

The raid was an initiative designed to protect alleged victims, bring suspected offenders to justice and prevent re-offending, Kent Police claim.

In total 12 people - nine men and three women - were arrested on suspicion of domestic abuse offences.

Two of the 12 people have been charged and two have been released without charge.

Eight people have been bailed, pending further enquiries.

Inspector Jody Gagan-Cook, from the Maidstone Community Safety Unit, said: “Our main focus for offences of this nature is to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the victims – part of that is ensuring they see action being taken.

“We want to encourage victims to come forward and report incidents of abuse, control and violence and not suffer in silence.

“Together with our partner agencies, we will ensure they receive the support they need.

“No one should feel like they are alone – if an incident of domestic abuse is reported to us we will take action.

“At the same time, I understand that some people may be fearful of approaching us.

“If that’s the case, I would encourage them to speak to a local support group.

“Details of the support available can be found on our website.”

As well as those arrested, a further two people were interviewed about reported domestic offences - an 18-year-old man from Canterbury and an 18-year-old woman from Tonbridge.

Enquiries into these reports are ongoing.