By Thames Valley Police have today carried out warrants in Banbury and Chipping Norton in relation to child sexual exploitation.
Approximately 40 uniformed officers have executed warrants at five properties this morning, four in Banbury and one in Chipping Norton. These searches related to child sexual exploitation offences of six females in Banbury between 2000 and 2007. The female victims were children at the time.
Four men have been arrested today, including:
- A 52-year-old man from Banbury was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to rape a female under 16, four counts of rape of a female under 16, rape of a female over 16, two counts of indecent assault of a female under 16, making an indecent photograph of a child, and two counts of false imprisonment.
- A 47-year-old man from Chipping Norton was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to rape a female under 16, two counts of rape of a female under 16, and rape of a female over 16.
- A 48-year-old man from Banbury has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to rape a female under 16, two counts of rape of a female under 16, rape of a female over 16, and two counts of indecent assault on a female under 16.
- A 44-year-old man from Banbury was arrested on suspicion of a count each of conspiracy to rape a female under 16, and rape a female under 16.
All four men are currently in police custody.
Following today’s arrests, Detective Inspector Nick Hind, has said:
“I understand that these arrests may cause concern within the community. This investigation is ongoing and legal proceedings are active, therefore we cannot provide all of the information immediately. However updates will be issued as and when we are able to. We will always look to tackle child sexual exploitation, being both recent and non-recent, and safeguarding victims of these offences is an absolute priority for Thames Valley Police.”
Superintendent Emma Garside, Local Policing Area Commander for Cherwell and West Oxfordshire, said:
“Child sexual exploitation (CSE) is a form of sexual abuse that involves the manipulation of and/ or pressure on young people, under the age of 18, into sexual activity. Whether you’re a member of the public, a parent, guardian or professional working with children, we all have a role to play in helping to prevent CSE. I am grateful to the victims in this case for having the courage to share their experiences and in doing so enabling today’s arrests to be made.”
Detective Hind is asking the community to remain diligent and to report any suspicious, concerning or abusive behaviour:
“We will take all reports seriously. We would encourage people to please contact us as it is never too late to make a report. You will always be listened to and treated with utmost dignity and your welfare will be a priority for us. If you wish to make a report, pick up the phone and call Thames Valley Police on our 24-hour number 101. If you don’t want to speak to police you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
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