DEVELOPING: Police Forces to Establish Specialist Teams to Combat Sexual Offences Nationwide

Breaking News: Specialist Teams to Combat Sexual Offences Nationwide The UK government has pledged to establish specialist teams to investigate rape and sexual offences in every police force in England and Wales by 2029. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood made the announcement, stating that victims of violence against women and girls are facing a "postcode lottery" when trying to access support. The new teams will be staffed by officers with specialist investigation skills, building on the success of over 50 police forces that already have these teams in place. The move is part of a long-delayed plan to halve violence against women and girls within a decade. The government's strategy, set to be unveiled on Thursday, will also include funding for undercover units operating online and the rollout of domestic abuse protection orders. Home Secretary Mahmood described the problem of violence against women and girls as a "national emergency" and acknowledged that the criminal justice system often fails victims. The introduction of specialist teams is expected to have an immediate impact, providing victims with more effective support and increasing the chances of successful prosecutions. The government's plan is a significant step towards addressing the issue of violence against women and girls, but its success will depend on the implementation and funding of the strategy. This is a developing story, with further details and updates expected in the coming days.