Two men charged following investigation into historic sex offences

Two men have been charged following an investigation into alleged sex offences from the early 2000s.

Ajaz Ahmed, 53, of Rochdale, has been charged with 17 offences - four counts of rape; two counts of aiding/abetting rape; two counts of assault by penetration; six counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child; making an indecent image; assault occasioning actual bodily harm and possessing extreme pornography.

Richard Moore, 60, of Hemel Hempstead, has also been charged with rape.

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Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed that the allegations relate to incidents in the early 2000s with the investigation carried out as part of Operation Blencathra, a dedicated investigation in Rochdale.

Ahmed appeared at Manchester and Salford Magistrates' Court yesterday (Thursday June 9) and was released on bail, to appear at Minshull Street Crown Cour t on July 14. Moore has been released under investigation and will appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates' Court on July 5.

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