OFFICERS from Dorset were dispatched to Gatwick Airport to arrest a suspect in connection with alleged sexual offences involving a child.

The operation formed part of a national child sexual abuse intensification week led by the National Crime Agency in partnership with the National Police Chiefs’ Council.

In Dorset, investigators progressed ongoing cases, made arrests and secured charges as they focused on protecting vulnerable children.

During the week, officers visited a school to speak directly with a child following a third-party report of a sexual offence and met with partner agencies over concerns relating to the care of a three-year-old.

In a separate developing case, officers supported an investigation into an injured infant. A suspect was interviewed and released under investigation pending further enquiries.

Detectives also charged a suspect with exposure and outraging public decency offences, updating the victim in person.

The Force’s Paedophile Online Investigation Team made six arrests during the intensification period, followed by a series of safeguarding visits.

Officers liaised with partner forces, attended court hearings and worked with the Crown Prosecution Service on cases progressing through the justice system.

Multi-agency meetings were also held to discuss strategies to protect vulnerable children.

Det Sup Jim Beashel of Dorset Police said: “This week of activity is just a snapshot of the work that we are constantly undertaking to ensure vulnerable children are protected and perpetrators of child sexual abuse are held to account.

“These cases are often complex with a range of partnership working and careful liaison with victims and families involved.

“In an increasingly digital world, we are also working to combat online abuse and raise awareness amongst young people of the risks they face online.

“We all have a role to play in tackling child abuse and we would urge anyone with concerns or information relating to offences of this nature to please report it to us.”