Several arrests have been made as investigations into historic child sexual exploitation (CSE) in Oldham continue.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has said five men have been arrested so far this year as part of Operation Sherwood, which is tackling historic CSE in the borough.
On January 22, a 43-year-old man from Oldham and 53-year-old man from Rochdale were both arrested on suspicion of facilitating a child sexual offence and conspiracy to commit sexual offences.
On the same day, a 40-year-old man from Oldham was arrested on suspicion of rape.
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Nearly two weeks later on February 4, two men based in West Yorkshire were arrested as part of the operation.
GMP said a 45-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of arranging or facilitating the commission of a child sexual offence and a 39-year-old man on suspicion of rape of a female under 16.
All five men have been bailed with strict conditions, and the complainants who have come forward have been updated on the arrests, GMP said.
The latest arrests take the total number to 27 for Operation Sherwood.
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Detective Chief Inspector Guy Laycock, who is leading Operation Sherwood, said: “Since Operation Sherwood was launched in 2022, we have been working with the survivors who have put their trust in us to build up a strong evidential picture of what was happening to them.
“This has led us to where we are now, which is actively pursuing suspects, bringing them in for questioning and moving closer to securing outcomes.
“These criminals may have thought they had gotten away with it, but we are coming for them and will not allow passage of time to obstruct our investigations.
“We are determined to bring to justice all those who inflicted misery on children in Oldham.”
Support available
If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, you are encouraged not to suffer in silence and report it to the police, or a support agency so you can get the help and support available.
- Saint Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Manchester provides a comprehensive and co-ordinated response to men, women and children who live or have been sexually assaulted within Greater Manchester. They offer forensic medical examinations, practical and emotional support as well as a counselling service for all ages. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and can be accessed by calling 0161 276 6515.
- Greater Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential information, support and counselling service run by women for women over 18 who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their lives. Call on 0161 273 4500 or email help@manchesterrapecrisis.co.uk.
- We are Survivors provides specialist trauma informed support to male victims in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape, or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182.
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