The policemen were disciplined for ethical violations, said Le Binh, police spokesman in northern province of Quang Ninh. A sixth officer was given a warning. "Their actions have caused bad consequences," he said.

One of the six policemen used his mobile phone to film the women during their arrest in June with two male clients, which they claimed would be used as evidence, state media have reported.

The clip shows the women with a shirtless client in what appears to be a hotel room, while several other men in civilian clothes take notes. The women try to cover themselves but are ordered to stand and put their hands up for one of the clothed men to take pictures.

The video has circulated on websites, causing public outrage at authorities abusing their power.