Former police officer arrested as part of investigation into sexual exploitation of vulnerable young girls

Four men, including a former police officer, have been arrested in connection with the sexual exploitation of vulnerable young girls in Bury between 2006 and 2009.

Greater Manchester Police, who are investigating the non-recent child sexual exploitation, carried out a series of warrants at properties in the Elton, Moorside and Eastern areas of Bury on Wednesday and Thursday (May 24 and 25).

The suspects are all aged between 36 and 44 and remain in custody for questioning. The 44-year-old man is a former police officer, it has been confirmed, who was employed by Greater Manchester Police until 2011.

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Two men, aged 35 and 41, have previously been arrested in connection with this investigation and are currently on bail pending further investigations.

Bury District Commander, Chief Superintendent Chris Hill said: “I commend the bravery and strength of any victim in coming forward and supporting police enquiries. The passage of time does not affect our dedication to ensuring they are listened to, placed at the very heart of operations and supported by specialist services for as long as they need.

Spot the signs of child exploitation: Going missing for periods of time or regularly returning home late; skipping school or being disruptive in class; appearing with unexplained gifts or possessions that can’t be accounted for; experiencing health problems that may indicate a sexually transmitted infection; having mood swings and changes in temperament; using drugs and/or alcohol; displaying inappropriate sexualised behaviour, such as over-familiarity with strangers, dressing in a sexualised manner or sending sexualised images by mobile phone ("sexting");