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Two men have been arrested after police raided four properties in High Wycombe this morning as part of an investigation into reports of historic child sexual exploitation.

A 44-year-old and 63-year-old from the town were arrested after detectives executed the series of searches across the town at 6am in relation to an investigation following reports of abuse between 1998 and 2004.

The operation has now been completed.

Five other properties in Aylesbury Vale, one in Wendover and one in Luton were also searched as part of this morning’s raids, leading to four other arrests.

Three men from Aylesbury, aged 33, 36 and 74, and a man from Luton, aged 49, were also arrested on suspicion of historic child sexual offences.

The six men are currently in custody.

Supt Ed McLean, LPA Commander for High Wycombe said: “Today’s events will have an impact on the community and residents may have concerns.

“If people have concerns about today’s warrants please speak to your neighbourhood policing teams who are carrying out patrols in the area.

Ailsa Kent, chief inspector from major crime in Aylesbury, said: “Today’s warrants are in relation to an investigation into reports of historic child sexual exploitation between 1998 and 2004.

Video: Supt Olly Wright, LPA commander Aylesbury Vale - courtesy of Thames Valley Police.

“Child sexual exploitation is and will remain a Force priority and we are investing more resources than ever before to tackle this type of exploitation across the Thames Valley.

“Safeguarding and protecting victims robustly and vigorously is a priority.”

Chief inspector Kent added: “If you have been a victim of child sexual exploitation, I would encourage you to come forward and speak to the police in confidence. We will listen to you and support you.

“If you don’t want to speak to police you can call Crimestoppers anonymously.”

If you are worried about somebody who you think may be a victim of child exploitation you can call ChildLine on 0800 11 11 or visit their website www.childline.org.uk.

One of the lead detectives involved in the investigation, which has been called Operation Rice, earlier tweeted that six people were arrested in total after officers executed the warrants.

Police superintendent Gez Chiariello, from Milton Keynes, tweeted about the arrests after holding an early morning briefing with officers.

 

Do you live near to where the properties have been raided? Get in touch with the Bucks Free Press by calling 07824 530126 or email andrew.colley@london.newsquest.co.uk