POLICE detained 15 people for online child abuse after executing warrants at addresses across Hampshire.

A total of 18 warrants were executed last month and now detectives have warned offender they will "face the consequences" of their actions.

Detective Superintendent Justin Torgout, head of Hampshire's Internet Child Abuse Team, is now urging parents and carers to talk to young people about their online activity

And he has reminded young people they can seek help from charities if they are affected.

"There are so many different methods for children to keep in contact with each other now and, particularly given the lack of face-to-face contact they have had with their friends in recent weeks, it's understandable that they would want to make use of social media sites and online platforms" he said.

"However, these methods of communication are also being used by people who wish to take advantage of children. It's so important that parents continue to have discussions with their children about their activity online and are watching for any changes in behaviour which may be concerning to them.

"You know your child better than anyone, and you will know when something is not right or their behaviour has changed."

He said young people may become secretive or protective of their devices or they may become withdrawn.

And he added: "The nation is experiencing a vastly different and unprecedented period, but our response to this type of distressing crime has not changed."