Police have arrested 17 people for prostitution-related offences.

After nine months' intelligence gathering, Police identified and targeted the vice syndicate concerned. Officers then raided 47 locations in Yau Tsim district. Five men and 12 women, aged 21 to 39, were arrested.

The women were brought from the Mainland by the syndicate to work as prostitutes in Tsim Sha Tsui and Yau Ma Tei. Their services were advertised on websites.

The syndicate had been active for over two years and it was believed that over $26 million had been funnelled through more than 30 banks held by its members. During the operation, $1.22 million in cash held by the ringleader was seized.

Investigations are ongoing and the arrestees are being detained for enquiries.