Five men have been arrested on suspicion of rape as part of an ongoing investigation into non-recent child sexual exploitation (CSE) in Oldham, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has confirmed. The men, aged between 37 and 54, were detained during a coordinated operation on Wednesday morning (June 4), with officers executing warrants simultaneously at addresses in Oldham, Tameside and Manchester.

The arrests form part of Operation Sherwood, a wide-ranging investigation into grooming and abuse which allegedly took place between 2011 and 2014. The case centres on four survivors, with detectives saying the men are not necessarily all linked. GMP said the allegations followed a disclosure from a survivor in Oldham and that the arrests reflect growing momentum in its pursuit of justice for victims of historic abuse.

Assistant Chief Constable Steph Parker, GMP’s 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.”

The five suspects remain in custody for questioning. Six other men were previously arrested as part of the same investigation and are currently on police bail with strict safeguarding conditions in place.

Detectives from GMP’s dedicated CSE Major Incident Team said they are continuing to gather evidence and intelligence in partnership with Oldham Council and support agencies.

ACC Parker added: “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.”

Police are urging anyone affected by sexual abuse to seek help and support.

Saint Mary’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Manchester offers 24-hour forensic, practical and emotional support for men, women and children. They can be contacted on 0161 276 6515.

Greater Manchester Rape Crisis provides a confidential support and counselling service for women aged over 18. Call 0161 273 4500 or email help@manchesterrapecrisis.co.uk.

Survivors Manchester offers trauma-informed support to male victims of rape, abuse or exploitation. Contact 0161 236 2182.