The senior detective in charge of investigating allegations that GMP had a ‘lack of desire’ to prosecute child abusers is appealing for fresh information from the public.
Greater Manchester Police, the third largest force in England and Wales, is the latest institution to face public backlash after being exposed in a television news report for their poor handling of historical child abuse.
An ITV investigation heard accusations from serving and former detectives of attempts to cover up failings to tackle gangs of Asian men who were routinely abusing young girls.
In a conference this afternoon at GMP’s headquarters in Newton Heath, Detective Superintendent Peter Marsh announced the force’s commitment ‘to thoroughly investigating the very serious allegations’.
Detective Superintendent Marsh, who is leading the enquiry, said to the press: “This investigation is wide-ranging and complex, especially when you consider we are dealing with events that took place nearly 25 years ago.
“Over the last week it has been reported in the press that agreements were made to cover up abuse and that people were told to shred and destroy documents.
“Clearly there are people who are willing to talk to the media who have not yet spoken to police and I want to encourage these people to call us in complete confidence,” he said.
“I am also interested in speaking to anyone who worked at the council at the relevant time or anyone else with information pertinent to this investigation.”
He also took the time to reassure members of the public left sceptical of GMP’s impartiality.
“It is also important to note that the inquiry has the benefit of an independent scrutiny group, who will provide a high degree of scrutiny throughout the investigation.”
In a statement released on Tuesday night, Chief Constable Sir Peter Fahy acknowledged his force’s failings, admitting they ‘could have done more to support the victims of child sexual exploitation in Rochdale’.
“There had already been major investigations of sexual abuse of vulnerable children at children’s homes in Rochdale, but it is now clear that our response should have been better,” he said.
Anyone with information is asked to call the incident room on 0161 856 0310.
Image courtesy of Salford University, via Flickr, with thanks
