Takeaway and off-licences were targeted in a multi-agency swoop in Tameside as part of the Not Okay week of action to tackle Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE).
Officers from Tameside Council trading standards and environmental health,Greater Manchester Police, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and the Department of Work and Pensions visited several premises across the borough which intelligence had highlighted as potential hot spot areas.
Illicit alcohol was seized from one off-licence while a suspected illegal immigrant working in a takeaway was arrested for questioning. Investigations are continuing.
The multi-agency crackdown was one of a number activities taking place across the borough this week as part of the Project Phoenix's Not Okay campaign, which has been particularly highlighting the links between children missing from home and CSE. There have been numerous roadshows, training events and visits to schools and
care homes in the borough as well as truancy patrols.
Children and young people have been given advice on staying safe while parents have been offered guidance on what to do if their child goes missing and how to spot the signs that they may be at risk of sexual exploitation.
Tameside Council Executive Deputy Leader Cllr John Taylor, who is responsible for enforcement, said:
"licences and takeaways can be hot spot areas for activity potentially linked to CSE – be it under-age drinking, legal highs or grooming. Sometimes, when businesses are not complying to one set of regulations, it is a sign that other forms of illegal activity may also be taking place. We regularly work with our partners to share relevant information and investigate anyissues and will not hesitate to take enforcement action where appropriate.
If anyone has concerns about any particular premises in the borough they can call on 0161 342 8355.
For further information on the Not Okay campaign and advice and guidance on CSE issues see
