Three arrested over child sexual exploitation in Burnley

A 25-year-old man was arrested at an address in Colne Road, Burnley on suspicion of conspiracy to groom a child under 16; a 19-year-old man was arrested in Fifth Avenue, Burnley on suspicion of conspiracy to groom a child under 16 and a 16-year-old boy was arrested in Grey Street, Burnley on suspicion of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.

They are all currently in custody.

The alleged offences took place over the past few months in Burnley.

Specially trained officers are continuing to work with the victim, a 15-year-old local girl.

Det. Sgt Sheralyn Melton, from Lancashire Constabulary Public Protection Unit, said: “We are at the very early stages of an investigation and we have been working closely with the victim.

“Tackling child sexual exploitation is one of the Constabulary’s top priorities and we, along with our partners, will continue to target offenders and help those children who have become, or are at risk of becoming, victims.”

Anyone with any information about child sexual exploitation should contact the Freedom Team on 101.