UK

Investigation into alleged child grooming gang reopened to look at ‘number of lines of inquiry’

An investigation into an alleged child grooming gang in Hull is being reopened.

Operation Marksman, which was launched in spring 2019, was wound down two years later.

It related to “allegations of child sexual exploitation against two victims”, Humberside Police said.

While 34 arrests were made, no charges have been brought.

The renewed operation will focus on a “number of lines of inquiry, with the victims being updated and receiving our full support”, the force added.

Assistant Chief Constable David Marshall said senior officers had commissioned a review of the investigation in 2021 by “Hydrant, who are national experts in this complex area of investigation”.

The Hydrant Programme is described as the “national lead for the policing response, oversight, and coordination of child sexual abuse investigations”.

Mr Marshall added: “Based on Hydrant’s evidential review of Op Marksman, Humberside Police have taken the decision to establish a new investigative team and recommence the investigation.”

He said Operation Marksman had been “continuously reviewed” and the force “understand the significant public interest in any allegations of child sexual abuse and exploitation within our communities”.