Ten men have been arrested by police on suspicion of committing serious sexual offences following raids across the Bradford district.

The arrests were made as part of an ongoing investigation by West Yorkshire Police, which is believed to be linked to sexual grooming.

The men, who were arrested when police swooped on Wednesday, have been released on bail pending further inquiries.

The investigation is thought to relate to alleged offences against a 14-year-old Keighley girl.

Community leaders in Keighley, including the town’s MP and councillors, have been briefed by police about the operation.

A spokesman for the police said: “There were ten arrests made across Bradford district on suspicion of serious sexual offences. All ten have been bailed. Because it is an ongoing investigation the force cannot disclose further information at this time.”

Eight of those arrested are understood to be from Keighley and two from Bradford but police would not confirm exactly where the raids took place.

Keighley Central Labour Councillor Abid Hussain said he had been informed of the operation by the town’s police.

He said: “The police have done what they should be doing in arresting these people. It is disappointing. However, I fully support the police and will work with them.”

His colleague Khadim Hussain said: “I have heard that the police are carrying out an operation. I am aware there is an operation into sexual exploitation. The police have taken action but, at this stage, we need to wait and see what will happen.”

Keighley MP Kris Hopkins said he had been briefed on the operation.

He said: “I was made aware that it was a serious operation and I was grateful for that information. I want the police to be able to carry out their investigation fully and to make sure that a fair process is put in place to let justice prevail.”

Bradford Council leader Councillor David Green refused to comment.