Man arrested over alleged physical assaults against children during circumcision procedures at their homes

Mohammad Siddiqui from Birmingham detained by police in connection with incidents in Bristol and Oxfordshire

Police are investigating claims of assault relating to the circumcision of boys in Bristol and Banbury (Getty)

A man has been arrested as part of a police investigation into physical assaults against children during circumcision procedures carried out at their homes.

Mohammad Siddiqui, from the Winson Green area of Birmingham, was arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm on Tuesday, following a joint investigation by Hampshire Constabulary and Thames Valley Police.

The 52-year-old has been released from custody and remains under investigation. An address in Birmingham has also been searched in connection with the probe.

Police said Mr Siddiqui’s arrest related to allegations surrounding circumcision procedures performed on boys at homes in Bristol and Banbury, Oxfordshire.

“This is a large investigation and we are already speaking to a number of people in relation to these allegations,” said DCI Fiona Bitters of Hampshire Constabulary.

“However we would like to speak to anyone who may have information that can help us with our investigation or is concerned about a procedure which has taken place privately since 2015.

“We are not investigating the practice of circumcision, we are investigating if any criminality took place relating to an individual’s actions when undertaking this procedure or the aftercare provided.”

Detectives called on any parents or guardians of boys circumcised, or healthcare workers who have concerns about procedures or aftercare to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to call Hampshire Police on 101, quoting Operation Jetson, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.