UK Police to Reopen Over 4,000 Grooming Gang Cases After Operation Beaconport Review

The National Crime Agency’s Operation Beaconport is reviewing more than 4,000 group‑based sexual abuse cases in London that were closed between January 2010 and March 2025. The review, triggered by the Baroness Louise Casey report and public pressure, targets investigations involving two or more suspects, multiple victims and no prior action, provided the suspects are still alive.

Metropolitan Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner Kevin Southworth said the audit has identified thousands of cases that meet the criteria and that any that require further investigation will be reopened. So far, 1,273 referrals from 23 forces have been sent to the NCA, with 236 flagged for rape allegations. London Mayor Sadiq Khan pledged to hold the Met to account as the review proceeds.