Three men arrested over reports of female genital mutilation at school

West Midlands police responded to reports of 'possible illegal practices' on Tuesday, May 10 around 11.39am.

Three men arrested over reports of female genital mutilation at unregistered Birmingham school iStock

Three men have been arrested after reports of female genital mutilation offences at an unregistered Birmingham school.

The call was made by OFSTED inspectors investigating reports of the school’s unregistered status.

Two men, aged 32 and 61, were arrested on May 10 under suspicion of being involved in female genital mutilation and were released on bail with strict conditions.

Another man was arrested on May 11 and has since been bailed under strict conditions.

The force said it understood the concern these arrests may cause to the community.

Female genital mutilation, also known as female circumcision, is illegal in the UK. The practice involves deliberate cutting or removal of external female genitalia.

OFSTED confirmed to STV News that inspectors had been investigating a suspected unregistered school in Birmingham, but could not comment further on the investigation.

A spokesperson for West Midlands police said: “We were called at 11.39am on Tuesday, May 10 by OFSTED inspectors who were investigating reports of an unregistered school. 

“There were concerns raised about possible illegal practices which may have taken place at the premises.

“As part of our enquiries two men, aged 32 and 61, have been arrested on suspicion of being involved in female genital mutilation and have since been bailed with strict conditions.

“A third man was also arrested on Wednesday, May 11 as part of our investigation. He has also been bailed with strict conditions.

“We understand the concern this will cause within the community but it’s important to stress we’re still working to establish whether any offences have occurred. Our investigation along with partner agencies is continuing.”

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