Two missing teen cousins may have been taken to Scotland and are at risk of harm after police arrested a man on suspicion of people trafficking.
Police have launched a national search for the girls who are named only as 15-year-old Andreea and her cousin, 16-year-old Izabela.
Detectives say they are becoming “increasingly concerned” for their safety.
Andreea was last seen on Friday, October 1 at her home in Canterbury, Kent, while Izabela was last seen on Sunday, October 3 in Harrow, west London.
Police believe the girls may have been taken outside of London by people who could do them harm, with Dundee listed as one possible location.
On Tuesday the Metropolitan Police arrested a 54-year-old man on suspicion of people trafficking and he remains in custody in London.
A ‘high risk’ missing person investigation has been launched and officers are now pursuing a number of lines of enquiry to locate the two girls.
As well as London, Kent and Dundee, police believe the girls also have links to Leicester.
Detective Chief Inspector Tony Bellis, of the North West Public Protection Unit, said : “We are becoming increasingly concerned for the safety of Andreea and Izabela.
“While we are keeping an open mind as to their whereabouts, we believe they may have been taken outside London by people who could do them harm.
“I would like to appeal directly to Andreea and Izabela. You are not in trouble and there are people who want to help you. Please contact the police or someone you trust when it is safe to do so.
“I would also urge members of the public, particularly in London and Dundee, to come forward if they have any information that could help us.”
Anyone who sees the girls should call 999. Anyone with other information about their whereabouts should call 101, giving the reference CAD7399/06OCT.
Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers, anonymously, by calling 0800 555 111 or by visiting www.crimestoppers-uk.org
Police Scotland have been contacted for comment.
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