Suspected offenders in new Rotherham abuse probe '˜not limited to Roma community'

The Star reported on Friday that police have launched a new operation into allegations that a ‘number of girls’ in the Roma community believed to be at risk of sexual exploitation and drug misuse.

A further statement by South Yorkshire Police and Rotherham Council, who are working together on the investigation, said today: “We do not believe the offenders are limited to the Roma community and the multi-agency operation is continuing to move forward in terms of identifying those suspected of involvement and supporting those affected.”

The investigation is in its early stages after being launched in January.

Malcolm Newsam, one of the Government-appointed commissioners currently in charge of Rotherham Council, said the operation may become a ‘significant challenge’ later this year.

He said: “This operation is still at the earliest stages but could have major resourcing implications as it gains momentum.”