Seven men have been charged with more than 40 offenses as part of an investigation into child sexual exploitation by the group.
The men, aged 19-26, were arrested on Tuesday in a targeted operation by police in Bristol and will appear at Bristol magistrates’ Court.
The charges relate to 11 victims, all of whom were teenagers at the time of the alleged offenses, which reportedly occurred between 2022 and 2025.
It follows an investigation that began in November 2023 after concerns were raised of sexual exploitation of a teenage girl.
Det Plom Herbert, the senior investigating officer, said it was a “complex and sensitive investigation with the protection of the girls at its heart”.
“Working with our partners, we ensure the most appropriate precautionary measures and support are available to each victim to protect them from harm.
“Officers are working around the clock to identify potential offenders and we are working closely with CPS to reach this very important stage,” he added.
Hussain Bashar, 19, of southmead in Bristol, has been charged with one count of rape.
Mohamed Arafe, 19, of Speedwell in Bristol, is charged with sexual assault, causing or encouraging the sexual exploitation of a child, and five counts of arranging or facilitating the sexual exploitation of a child.
He also faces charges related to the supply of cocaine and ecstasy.
Saya Omari, 20, of Fishponds in Bristol, was charged with two counts of rape, four counts of arranging or facilitating the sexual exploitation of a child, and supplying a class to a child.
Wadie Sharaf, 21, of Redland in Bristol, is also charged with rape, attempted rape, sexual assault and sexual activity and sexual activity on a child.
Mohammed Kurdi, 21, of Henbury in Bristol, was charged with two counts of rape, two counts of arranging or facilitating the sexual exploitation of a child, supplying cannabis.
A 19-year-old man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has been charged with four counts of rape, distributing sexual photographs of a child, and exploiting the custody of a child, and being concerned in the supply of ecstasy and cannabis.
And a 26-year-old man, who also cannot be named for legal reasons, was charged with two counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.
SPT Deepak Kenth, from Avon and Somerset Police, said neighborhood officers had been supporting the investigation since these offenses were first identified.
“We know this update will come as a huge shock to our communities and I want to reassure everyone that we will continue to work with children away from abuse and exploitation,” he said.
“Working with our partner agencies, doing events in the City Center and continuing to work with hotels, taxi drivers, and other businesses to exploit and should report any concerns or issues to the police.”