More than 30 arrested in Thames Valley Police crackdown on online child sexual abuse

• Video report by ITV News Meridian's Cary Johnston

More than thirty suspected paedophiles have been arrested in the Thames Valley as part of a crackdown on online child sexual abuse.

Officers carried out searches at addresses across Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Berkshire.

Throughout May, officers completed 37 warrants, arrested 32 people, seized a total of 419 devices and safeguarded 24 children.

A further four people were arrested on suspicion of making arrangements to meet for sexual activity with children.

During March this year, reports of online child sexual abuse in the Thames Valley were 146 per cent higher, compared to the number of reports in March 2019.

Police believe that criminals are exploiting the lockdown, with school closures and more children spending time online.

Detective Chief Inspector Matt Darnell, of the Thames Valley Police Protecting Vulnerable People Unit, said: "We want to ensure that a clear message is being sent to those that look to exploit children. This is not acceptable - it is a very serious crime and you will get caught. These warrants show that we are constantly monitoring the intelligence we receive about these offences, and that we will come to your home, investigate, seize your devices and arrest you if necessary.

• Video: Director of Stop It Now!, Donald Findlater

Director of Stop It Now!, Donald Findlater, says confidential help is available to those experiencing inappropriate thoughts.

He says: "People who are viewing increasing quantities of adult pornography need to ensure they don't step over a line and start viewing sexual images of under 18s - over recent years that is the path the majority of viewers of sexual material involving children have taken.

"Viewers of this material may make excuses to themselves - that they didn't take the pictures; that they aren't involved in the abuse; that the images are of teenagers and not little children - but all sexual images of under 18s are illegal, children are harmed in its creation and viewing, and there are grave consequences facing those who are arrested."

Websites and who to call:

• If you are concerned for the safety of a child:

• Call Thames Valley Police on 101

• Call the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or click here to go to their

• website

• Call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

• If you are concerned about your own thoughts and behaviour:

• Call 0808 1000 900 or go to the Stop It Now! website