TWENTY two people have been arrested by Lancashire Police during a week of activity aimed at tackling the sexual exploitation of children.

More than 140 hotspots were also targeted across the county including amusement arcades, fast food restaurants, cinemas, rail and bus stations, and visits were carried out to children’s homes.

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Officers also identified both potential offenders and at risk children during the week, conducting more than 50 visits and making 12 new CSE referrals.

Among those apprehended was a 28-year-old man from Burnley, who was arrested over a string of child sex offences.

He was charged with child abduction, sexual activity with a child, inciting sexual activity, attempting to incite a child into sexual activity, grooming, providing a false document with intent to obtain leave to remain in the UK and possession of a false document with intent.

In total 17 men from across the county were arrested on suspicion of possessing indecent images of children and have been bailed pending further enquiries.

These included a 26-year-old man from Clitheroe, a 68-year-old Blackburn man, a 31-year-old Nelson man, a 39-year-old man from Briercliffe, and a 59-year-old man from Chorley.

A 33-year-old Rossendale man and a 22-year-old man from Burnley were also arrested and charged with breaching their sexual offences prevention orders.

The week long multi-agency awareness campaign also saw thousands of school children, professionals, teachers, parents, carers, taxi drivers, sports coaches and youth leaders get involved in educational work.

Detective Superintendent Sue Cawley, head of Lancashire police's Public Protection Unit said: “We have executed a number of warrants around the county which has resulted in the arrest of 22 people who we believe have been involved in various offences relating the exploitation and abuse of children.

“The operation, along with all the other multi-agency activities that have taken place this week, clearly demonstrate our ability and intention to tackle child sexual exploitation.

“I am confident that the awareness week has highlighted the work currently undertaken to tackle the issue and that our approach is a long term one with important work happening each and every day.

“Tackling child sexual exploitation is extremely important for the constabulary and we are committed to preventing child sexual abuse, supporting victims and bringing those responsible to justice.”

If you are concerned about a young person you know, call Lancashire Police on 101.