Investigation into an alleged child grooming gang in Hull has been reopened

The investigation was wound down two years ago

Author: Tom Wilkinson, PA, Julie CastonPublished 30th Aug 2022

Humberside Police is to bring in a new team to investigate child sexual exploitation in Hull.

Operation Marksman was originally launched in Spring 2019, investigating allegations relating to 2 victims.

However it was wound down in 2021 with no charges against any of the 34 people arrested.

A specialist team has now reviewed operations which has led to police to say they'll bring in a new team and re- start investigations.

It follows a major review of the initial inquiry, police have said.

Humberside Police made 34 arrests as part of Operation Marksman which looked into allegations of child sexual abuse made by two victims in Hull.

But no charges were made during the course of the inquiry which started in Spring 2019, although the force insisted it remained a "priority" and was under constant review.

Last year Humberside Police invited the Hydrant Programme - national experts on child sexual abuse inquiries - to assess its investigation.

Following that review, Operation Marksman will be started again with a new team of detectives, the force said.

Assistant Chief Constable David Marshall said:

"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.

"The investigation team will focus on a number of lines of inquiry, with the victims being updated and receiving our full support.

"Humberside Police understand the significant public interest in any allegations of child sexual abuse and exploitation within our communities."

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