A SUSPECT believed to pose a “significant risk” to young teenagers has been arrested in Sherborne following an urgent police operation.

Sherborne Neighbourhood Policing Team officers tracked down what they described as a high-priority target on Tuesday after receiving information from Dorset Police’s Safeguarding Team.

The individual’s whereabouts had been unknown at the time officers were alerted.

Police said the person was in the vicinity of Sherborne and posed a potential threat to young teens.

Officers moved quickly to locate and detain the suspect, who has since been arrested and remains in custody.

In a statement, police confirmed the individual is “continuing to assist officers with their enquiries”.

Due to the ongoing investigation, no further details have been released at this stage.

Police thanked members of the public who came forward with information, praising what they described as the courage of those who reported concerns.

The force said the arrest demonstrates its commitment to acting “quickly and robustly” when potential threats to the community are identified.

Officers have not disclosed the nature of the alleged risk or any potential charges.

Further updates are expected once the investigation progresses.