TWO men and a 16-year-old boy were arrested during dawn raids as part of an investigation into alleged child sexual exploitation.

Police swooped on three separate addresses in Burnley just before 8am yesterday (Wednesday) in a co-ordinated operation.

Police said the alleged offences took place over the past few months in Burnley.

They said specially-trained officers were continuing to work with the alleged victim, a 15-year-old girl.

It is believed the raids were carried out after information came to light from the girl’s mobile phone.

Detective Sergeant Sheralyn Melton, from Lancashire Constabulary's public protection unit, said: “We are at the very early stages of an investigation and we have been working closely with the victim.

“Tackling child sexual exploitation is one of the constabulary's top priorities and we, along with our partners, will continue to target offenders and help those children who have become, or are at risk of becoming, victims.”

A 25-year-old man was arrested at an address in Colne Road on suspicion of conspiracy to groom a child under 16.

A 19-year-old man was arrested at a property in Fifth Avenue on suspicion of conspiracy to groom a child under 16, and a 16-year-old boy was arrested at an address in Grey Street on suspicion of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.

The two men and the teenager were all in custody being questioned by officers last night.

Anyone with any information about child sexual exploitation should contact the Freedom Team on 101.