'Grooming gang' of eight men is charged with rape and sexual abuse against children over 11-year period

Published: 17:13, 15 July 2026 | Updated: 17:14, 15 July 2026 A suspected grooming gang of eight men were charged with more than 30 offences of historical child sexual exploitation that spanned more than a decade.   The men, aged 54 to 75, carried out the alleged abuse on victims in south Wales between 1985 and 1996.  The suspects face 34 charges, including 17 counts of rape, some of which relate to multiple incidents of rape.  It comes as part of an investigation named Operation Oak by Gwent Police, which stemmed from reports by several women of sexual abuse committed against them as children.  The charges involve eight victims who were children at the time of the alleged offences.  The men were arrested in Newport, Swansea, London, Birmingham, Lancashire, Edinburgh and the Argyll and Bute area of Scotland. They are due to appear before Newport Magistrates' Court on July 24.  Detective Chief Superintendent Andrew Tuck, of Gwent Police, urged anyone who suffered abuse, or suspects abuse, to contact the police.  The charges as part of an investigation named Operation Oak by Gwent Police (Pictured: Rhymney Police Station, Gwent Police's HQ) He said: 'Operation Oak is a complex and long-running investigation into group-based child sexual exploitation in south Wales. 'At the heart of our investigation has been supporting victims. Together with specialist agencies, we are continuing to provide support to them. 'I know investigations of this nature are likely to cause concern in our communities but it's vital to the victims in this case and the integrity of the investigation that nothing is posted on social media which could impact the court proceedings. 'Anyone who reports child abuse will be taken seriously, and we would urge anyone who has suffered abuse or has concerns about someone who may be suffering to come forward. 'We will listen to you and investigate all offences, and also ensure you have access to any help or support you need.' Jenny Hopkins, chief crown prosecutor for Wales, added: 'Our prosecutors have worked to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring the case to court and that it is in the public interest to pursue criminal proceedings. 'We remind all concerned that criminal proceedings against these defendants are active and that they have the right to a fair trial. 'It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.'  Mohammad Sheikh Abdul Hannan, 54 Sheikh Mohammed Tahir Ullah, 73  Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.