POLICE have arrested a third man on suspicion of crimes, including false imprisonment, blackmail and causing grevious bodily harm, following a series of early morning raids.

The arrest of the 25-year-old, which was made in south London, comes after police arrested two other men, aged 29 and 32, early on Tuesday morning.

Officers carried out searches at four addresses, three in Gravesend and one in Northfleet.

The three men are in custody where they will be questioned by detectives.

More than 100 officers, including some armed police, were involved in the operation which took place at around 4am.

Police say the arrests follow intelligence activity and a significant investigation by Kent Police's Major Crimes Department.

Area commander for north Kent, Supt Martin Hewitt, said: "This was a major operation involving officers from a number of specialist resources. This demonstrates that we will deal robustly with serious and organised crime in the county.

"Our priority is to protect life and prevent injury and to work to ensure our communities remain safe. We will act swiftly to tackle determined criminals."