Man suspected of child rape arrested

Police have arrested a 38-year-old man on suspicion of raping a girl under the age of 18 as they investigate non-recent child sexual exploitation cases in Oldham.

Specialist officers raided a residential property in Rochdale this morning (Monday), and arrested the man who is in police custody for questioning. 

The arrest was made as part of Operation Sherwood, an investigation into the abuse a number of girls experienced in Oldham between 2011 and 2014. 

The raid was planned following recent disclosure from a survivor, who is at the forefront of a police investigation into abuse alleged to have occurred in Bolton.  

This case is forming part of the overall enquiries into multi-offender and multi-victim criminality. 

Within the last three months alone, 13 suspects have been arrested in relation to Operation Sherwood. 

Last week, officers arrested two men – aged 38 and 40 – in Oldham on suspicion of rape of a child. They have been bailed on stringent conditions pending further enquiries.   

Assistant Chief Constable Steph Parker, lead for Protecting Vulnerable People, said: “The girls who experienced these abhorrent crimes over a decade ago are now women who have placed their faith in the GMP of today to bring justice, and we are doing everything we can to move closer to securing outcomes. 

“While we work alongside these survivors and provide regular updates, we are grateful for the support our specialist partnership agencies are providing them, which ensures our investigation moves forward at a pace and in a manner that is right for them. 

“These cases are not without complexities, but there is a team of detectives working endlessly with determination to bring child abusers in front of the courts to answer to strong evidence. 

“Our enquiries will continue to ramp up.” 

If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted report it to the police immediately. 

- 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.