Five people have been jailed for a combined 82 years over the sexual exploitation of vulnerable teenage girls in Rhyl, north Wales. Three men allegedly supplied victims with drugs and alcohol before raping and abusing them, while two others helped transport victims or provided premises; the case has renewed calls for a wider inquiry into grooming gangs in Wales.

The abuse began in 2022 and involved girls aged 14 to 16, with offences occurring in homes, cars and business premises, and one victim being taken to London. Police have faced criticism for not examining important mobile-phone evidence after the group’s initial arrests, potentially delaying action against the offenders.