A specialist police team based in Rochdale has been recognised for its unwavering efforts to protect children from serious harm, with more than 300 arrests made in the past year.
The Child Protection Investigation Unit, part of Greater Manchester Police, investigates some of the most serious crimes against children, including sexual abuse, physical violence, honour-based abuse and forced marriage.
Made up of two detective sergeants, nine detective constables and a police constable, the team works closely with social care, education and health services. The aim is to identify risks, respond swiftly and protect vulnerable children from immediate and long-term harm.
Detective Sergeant David Gill, who leads the team, said: “Every day, our priority is the safety and wellbeing of children in Rochdale. The work of the CPIU is challenging but vital, and the officers and staff in this unit go above and beyond each day.”
In 2025 alone, CPIU officers made over 300 arrests relating to child protection offences. Many of these cases have led to charges and convictions. The unit’s approach involves not only reactive investigation but also proactive engagement, early intervention, and partnership working to prevent abuse before it escalates.
Officers from the unit provide support to children and families, arrest suspects, carry out complex investigations and use emergency police protection powers when necessary to remove children from danger.
The unit was recently named Team of the Year in GMP’s divisional awards and went on to be nominated at the Chief Constable’s Annual Awards, highlighting its impact beyond Rochdale.
Detective Sergeant Gill added: “By acting quickly, working closely with our partners and relentlessly pursuing offenders, we are able to protect vulnerable children and make our communities safer.”
The CPIU’s recognition comes at a time of increased scrutiny around child protection services in Rochdale. In recent weeks, Councillor Farooq Ahmed has called for an emergency town hall meeting to review the borough’s historic response to child sexual exploitation, and to demand an independent inquiry into past failings.
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