The arrests took place on 16 July, 3 August, 11 August and 19 August while two further suspects were interviewed under caution in the UK on 4 June and 27 August.
The operation is focusing on 45 suspects – and police say that up to 13 of them are “public figures” such as former politicians or entertainers who may have lived in or visited Jersey in the past. One of the names linked to the investigation so far is former UK Prime Minister Ted Heath.
Victims have continued to come forward to the police following a witness appeal 3 June 2015 and police expect to make further arrests and charge more suspects as part of the on-going investigation.
Two defendants have already been charged and have appeared locally in court, whilst two remain on bail subject to charging decisions and two have been the subject of no further action.
Home Affairs Minister Kristina Moore clarified the number of arrests in response to a written question by Deputy Montfort Tadier in the States yesterday.
She said: “Further arrests and charges are anticipated as part of this on-going and complex investigation.
“A small number of additional victims continue to come forward and make contact with the police. Operational Whistle is working to a documented communications and media strategy. Initial media engagement, including a witness appeal, was undertaken on 3rd June 2015.
“A further public and media update is due shortly. Key stakeholders, including the Independent Jersey Care Inquiry, are also being kept apprised of developments. Some victims have approached the police as a result of the media reporting of both the Independent Jersey Care Inquiry and the UK Operation Hydrant.”
Operation Whistle was launched in June in response to the number of abuse victims who came forward following the death of Jimmie Saville.
A team of six officers lead by Detective Superintendent Stewart Gull, are investigating allegations made by 50 victims against 45 suspects, mostly from the 1970s and 1980s.