Police have confiscated 742 packets of baby milk powder and tens of thousands of euros in cash from a home in the west of Amsterdam, broadcaster Nos says on Friday.

Police had been tipped off by a neighbour who reported large numbers of people arriving at the flat with empty bags and leaving with full ones.

Six Chinese nationals in the property were arrested for refusing to identify themselves. One has since been released from custody. Five others are thought to be illegal immigrants.

Police said it is unclear where the milk powder came from or if it had been stolen. The packages have been confiscated while an investigation is carried out.

Demand for baby milk powder has been high in China since the melamine scandal of 2008. Many Dutch shops have since limited sales to one or two packages per person to prevent hoarding.