Summary
A BBC investigation found reports of children as young as 11 being sexually abused in mini-marts in the West Midlands. Advocacy and investigative efforts raised these reports to authorities over the past decade, but there is a debate about the extent of evidence supporting these claims. West Midlands Police are now re-evaluating the information provided.
Key Facts
- Reports indicate that children as young as 11 were sexually abused in High Street mini-marts in the West Midlands.
- Dudley Council documents revealed these concerns were reported multiple times over a 10-year period.
- Some reports suggest children were enticed with drugs, alcohol, and cigarettes.
- Initially, West Midlands Police said there was no evidence, but this statement was revised after further evidence was presented.
- Child sexual exploitation concerns have been shared in briefings with police and safeguarding groups since 2016.
- Intelligence from multiple sources suggested specific shops and areas were involved in exploitation activities.
- A council worker shared that some shops were linked to organized crime targeting young women.
- Trading Standards and police have been involved in ongoing investigations, including conducting foreign conviction checks of suspects.
