Six men in their 40s have been arrested as part of a significant and complex investigation by Thames Valley Police into historic group-based child sexual exploitation. The arrests followed a series of warrants executed on 9 July 2026 at five properties in Oxford and one in Manchester.
The offences under investigation relate to two female victims, who were aged between 13 and 15 years old, and are alleged to have occurred in Oxford between 2001 and 2005. This ongoing inquiry highlights the police's commitment to tackling child sexual exploitation, both recent and non-recent, which remains a key priority for the force.
In addition to the six primary suspects, four further men, also in their 40s, were arrested in other regions, including South Yorkshire, Buckinghamshire, Nottinghamshire, and the Merseyside area. These four individuals have since been released on conditional bail, allowing for further enquiries to be conducted as the investigation progresses.
Detective Inspector Robert Underhill stated that due to the sensitive and ongoing nature of the investigation, information might not be provided immediately. However, he assured the public that updates would be shared when possible. He also emphasised that the victims are receiving support from officers during this difficult time.
Thames Valley Police are urging anyone who suspects a person of carrying out child sexual exploitation, or who believes someone they know has been or may be a victim, to come forward. The force reiterated its commitment to listening to and supporting anyone who reports such incidents, stressing that the news of these warrants might prompt individuals to report past experiences.