Gang allegedly selling girls for sex arrested
Thames Valley Police have arrested 12 men after conducting dawn raids in Oxford, as part of an investigation into child exploitation. 24 girls between the ages of 11 and 16 are now being cared for by social services. Officers believe the offences have taken place over a 6 year period.
– Detective Superintendent Rob Mason, Thames Valley PoliceWe believe we have uncovered an organised crime group who have been running a business of selling young girls for sex. We have also identified a number of customers who we have reason to believe have used this service.
The men between the ages of 21 and 37 are being questioned by police this morning. They have been arrested on suspicion of a variety of offences including;
- The prostitution of females under the age of 18
- Administrating drugs for the purpose of rape
- Human trafficking
- Grooming and rape.
Neighbourhood policing patrols conducted patrols around the areas where the raids took place to reassure local residents. Anyone with any information which they feel would be useful to the investigation is urged to contact Crimestoppers.
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