Five men arrested on suspicion of rape

Greater Manchester Police investigations into non-recent child sexual exploitation are ramping up with five suspects arrested this morning (04/06/2025) in relation to reports of abuse in Oldham between 2011 and 2014.

Detectives in GMP’s dedicated CSE Major Incident Team have been working closely with the survivors at the centre of these cases, gathering evidence and intelligence, with unwavering determination to bring child abusers to justice.

This morning’s action involved the execution of five warrants simultaneously at addresses in Oldham, Tameside, and Manchester.

Five men – aged between 37 and 54 – have been arrested on suspicion of rape.

These offences follow a disclosure from an Oldham survivor that forms part of a complex and wide-ranging investigation codenamed ‘Operation Sherwood’ which draws on GMP’s effective partnership with Oldham Council.

In a statement, Greater Manchester Police have said: “We have previously arrested six suspects as part of this investigation. They were placed on police bail with significant child protection conditions to adhere to, whilst our investigation continues.

“The five men arrested this morning remain in custody for questioning.

“The suspects are not necessarily all linked, but they collectively relate to four survivors we are supporting.”

Assistant Chief Constable Steph Parker, lead for Protecting Vulnerable People, said: “The survivors at the centre of these cases have placed their trust in the GMP of today, and have the confidence to support prosecutions, which we hold to the highest regard.

“We are working closely with them, while they receive tailored support from partnership agencies, moving forward at a pace and in a manner that is right for them.

“Our investigative teams are piecing together all the evidence and taking robust action as soon as we can. Bringing child abusers to justice is why our detectives work so tirelessly day-in day-out. It’s essential we get this right and build strong case files to present the best possible case in court.

“We are now making significant strides in our pursuit and activity is only going to continue ramping up. We will not allow time to be a barrier to justice and any abusers in Oldham or beyond should be warned that we are coming for them.”

If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, we encourage you 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

- Survivors Manchester provides specialist trauma informed support to male victims in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape, or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182.