MP pushes urgent inquiry into the rising concern surrounding grooming gangs in Bradford

Following reports of non-recent child sexual exploitation, 12 men and 1 woman have been arrested. All individuals who were aged between 42 and 59 and a 60-year-old were situated at several addresses across Bradford in March and April 2025. 

All 13 have been bailed pending further enquiries. 

The offences that were committed centres around the report made by a woman who was sexually abused in Bradford between 2000 and 2005 when she was aged only 13-17 years old. 

Detective chief inspector Vicky Greenbank of Bradford District police said ‘these arrests are part of an ongoing investigation into non recent sexual offences against a child in the Bradford area. We are focused on victims and survivors who have come forward to speak to us trusting us to pursue those responsible and bring them to justice.’

She went on to give assurance to all survivors that all reports of sexual abuse will be taken seriously and all survivors will be supported by officers with experience in dealing with these types of offences.

In January, a national inquiry into grooming gangs was announced. This inquiry was said to take place in five areas, Oldham, Greater Manchester and 3 other locations that are yet to be disclosed.  Conservative MP for Keighley and Ilkley addressed the government to express how ‘no real progress is being made in their promise to launch five local rape gang enquiries before Easter.’ 

He emphasised by asking ‘when will the government step up, use their statutory powers and give the victims and survivors in areas such as Keighley and the wider Bradford district the full inquiry that they have wanted for almost two decades?’

Safeguarding minister has said that local authorities will be able to access a £5 million fund to support locally led work on grooming gangs. She added that there is nothing to suggest that Bradford will be unable to access the fund just as Oldham has to undertake the work that might be needed there.

Jordans Solicitors – helping victims of sexual abuse claim compensation.

If you have been a victim of physical and/or sexual abuse and would like to speak to one of our Specialist Abuse Lawyers in confidence, please do not hesitate to contact us.

We have the knowledge and experience to advise you on the available options for pursuing a Criminal Injuries Compensation Claim and/or civil damages claim.

Our Sexual Abuse Compensation Team can be contacted by telephoning 08009555094 or 03303001103.