The cases are being re-examined following a national review into group-based child sexual exploitation which found it was more widespread, organised, and underreported than previously acknowledged. The force said it took all "allegations or concerns about child sexual exploitation and child criminal exploitation incredibly seriously". Baroness Casey's report, the National Audit on Group-based Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse, also found a "mismatch" in the way the way the Metropolitan Police and local authorities record child abuse.
The actor Noel Clarke has been arrested by police at his family home in London. Detectives searched the former Doctor Who star's property in Kensington and officers were seen leaving the address with boxes apparently containing a laptop and documents. The Guardian understands the Met investigation began on 1 September this year and is being led by the central specialist crime command. Clarke was arrested and questioned in custody. He was later released. The reasons for his arrest are unknown.
On Wednesday 3 September, a mobile phone was found during a routine search of the House of Commons chamber by Met officers. Inquiries have led officers to believe that the phone was purposely placed in a location with the aim of causing disruption to business in the house. An investigation has been launched and inquiries are ongoing. We have updated the speaker and clerk of the house.
