Five arrested in raids as a part of historic sex offence inquiry

FOUR men and one woman have been arrested after police carried out child sexual exploitation raids.

The men, aged between 49 and 64, and the 60-yearold woman were arrested by officers during five warrants executed in Stockport, south Manchester, and Trafford this week.

The arrests follow a ‘complex and lengthy investigation,’ Greater Manchester Police announced on Saturday, October 16.

The five people were arrested on suspicion of a range of non-recent child sexual exploitation offences by GMP’s City of Manchester CID.

The arrests relate to offences committed in the south Manchester area in the late 1980s and early 1990s against two female teenage victims.

All five have been released on bail pending further enquiries.

Police are now encouraging other people to come forward with information that might help their case.

Detective Inspector John Robb of GMP’s City of Manchester CID said: “This has been a complex and lengthy investigation and I commend the courage and strength that the victims have shown as the investigation has progressed.

“Their bravery and support has been instrumental in allowing us to conduct these warrants and ultimately secure these arrests.

“GMP takes reports of child sexual exploitation incredibly seriously and the action taken this week is a significant step in ensuring we tackle the issue of CSE across South Manchester and bring those responsible to justice.

“Although we have made these arrests our investigation will remain very much ongoing and I would encourage anyone who may have information or concerns to get in touch with police as a matter of urgency.

“All information passed to us will be treated with the utmost respect and confidence.” »»Anyone with information relating to child sexual exploitation should contact police via our LiveChat function at www.gmp.police.uk. »»Details can also be passed via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.