An investigation into the grooming and sex abuse of children in parks in Bury has been launched, police revealed today.

The case - codenamed Burgos - has led to a string of recent arrests, and detectives are appealing for victims to come forward.

Nine children are already receiving specialist support after being identified as potential victims.

Officers have been investigating child sexual exploitation offences in the Bury area since June last year, but have only just made the fact public.

The case centres on the Openshaw Park and Clarence Park areas of the borough. But it is not yet known whether it focuses on an organised gang or a number of individuals.

Officers have been sent onto the streets to identify suspects and offences and say they are working with the community as part of a ‘wider disruption plan’.

The Manchester Evening News understands that the case has been spun out of enquiries into organised crime.

But at this stage Greater Manchester Police are not confirming how many people have been arrested or what specific offences they are suspected of.

The investigation was launched in June 2017 and involves the multi-agency Phoenix CSE team, which links criminal justice with public sector organisations.

(Image: Manchester Evening News)

Phoenix was set up disrupt offenders engaged in child sexual exploitation, raise awareness and protect and provide support to victims.

Superintendent Rick Jackson of GMP’s Bury borough, said: “Tackling child sexual exploitation is a priority for GMP and we will continue to work closely with our partners to safeguard children and prosecute offenders.

“It is vital that we hear from anyone who has been a victim, or knows something that could help with this investigation, please be assured there are measures in place to support people who come forward.

“Please, if you have information, contact the Bury Phoenix team on 0161 856 8002 or 101, reports can also be made anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

A Bury council spokesman said: "We are currently working with nine young people under Operation Burgos following the police's investigation.

"We have support in place for those affected and will await the outcomes of police investigations."

Visit www.itsnotokay.co.uk for information for children, young people, parents, carers and professionals on how to spot the signs of child sexual exploitation and what to do about it.