Seven arrested in Bradford investigation into child sexual abuse in the 1970s
The police action follows reports involving a 14-year-old victim from the Thorpe Edge area
Seven people have been arrested as part of an investigation into allegations of non-recent child sexual abuse in Bradford.
The arrests happened earlier today at addresses in Bradford, Bolton, Bridlington, and Stoke-on-Trent, following reports of offences that occurred in the late 1970s.
The group, six men aged between 61 and 70 and one woman aged 68, were questioned on suspicion of rape and conspiracy to rape.
Five of the men have been released on bail and one man has been released under investigation.
The woman has also been bailed pending further inquiries.
The allegations relate to one victim, a 14-year-old girl, in the Thorpe Edge area of Bradford.
Detective Chief Inspector Vicky Greenbank West Yorkshire Police said:
“Protecting and safeguarding children is a top priority for West Yorkshire Police and this operation forms part of our ongoing commitment to investigate both current and non-recent sexual offences against children," Greenbank said.
“Child sexual abuse and exploitation is an abhorrent crime and one which affects some of the most vulnerable people in our society.
“We would urge anyone who has been a victim of sexual abuse, no matter where or when it took place, to report it to the police. You will be listened to, and you will be believed.
If someone has sexually abused you, please tell someone. We have specially trained officers who investigate these types of offences and can provide support.”