Eight charged with 34 offences in decades-old child sexual exploitation case

Eight suspected grooming gang members have been charged with rape and sexual abuse against children over a decade-long period.

The men, aged 54 to 73, were arrested in areas across the UK following a major investigation into alleged offences between 1985 and 1996.

Some 34 charges – including 17 of rape – have been brought against the suspects following the probe into historical child sexual exploitation.

Operation Oak investigated sexual abuse claims made by eight women who were all children at the time of the alleged offences.

The men were arrested in Newport, Swansea, London, Birmingham, Lancashire, Edinburgh and the Argyll and Bute area of Scotland.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has since authorised the charges, some of which relate to multiple incidents of rape.

Gwent Police confirmed the men are set to appear before Newport Magistrates’ Court on July 24.

Detective Chief Superintendent Andrew Tuck urged any victims of abuse to come forward and speak to police.

Mr Tuck said: “Operation Oak is a complex and long-running investigation into group-based child sexual exploitation in south Wales.

“At the heart of our investigation has been supporting victims. Together with specialist agencies, we are continuing to provide support to them.

“Anyone who reports child abuse will be taken seriously.

“We would urge anyone who has suffered abuse or has concerns about someone who may be suffering to come forward.

“We will listen to you and investigate all offences, and also ensure you have access to any help or support you need.”

Jenny Hopkins, chief crown prosecutor for Wales, said there was “sufficient evidence” to take the men to court.

She added: “Our prosecutors have worked to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring the case to court and that it is in the public interest to pursue criminal proceedings.

“We remind all concerned that criminal proceedings against these defendants are active and that they have the right to a fair trial.

“It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.”