Arrests made in connection with grooming allegations dating back to 2002

Photo: GMP

Operation Lytton relates to non-recent abuse committed in Rochdale between 2002 and 2006

A number of arrests have been made in Rochdale in connection with alleged grooming offences committed between 2002 - 2006.

Greater Manchester Police has confirmed that Operation Lytton is one of its ongoing major investigations in Greater Manchester into child sexual exploitation.

Police said that a number of arrests and interviews have already taken place, however, it is not clear exactly when the arrests were made and it is unknown how long the investigation has been underway.

In a statement, GMP said: “This is a complex criminal investigation into non-recent abuse committed in Rochdale between 2002 and 2006.

"Detectives are working alongside partners to provide a multi-agency response to safeguarding victims and providing them with the most suitable support, whilst identifying and bringing offenders to justice.

"Due to the sensitivities associated with offences of this nature, victims are at the forefront of our investigation and it would be inappropriate to release any further information at this time."

News of the existence of Operation Lytton was broken this morning by The Mill website manchestermill.co.uk.