A woman who is believed to have been taking her daughter abroad to conduct FGM has been arrested at Heathrow Airport.
The 42 year-old Zimbabwean born British national had been on her way to Ghana via Amsterdam with her 8 year-old daughter in tow, when she was stopped at the gate.
Police officers and border force agents had been conducting an FGM awareness operation at the time of the arrest.
‘Health passports’ with information about FGM, and a reminder that it is illegal in the UK were handed out to passengers travelling to countries known to practice FGM.
Officers also spoke to passengers on several flights, and baggage was checked in order to help identify potential culprits.
The woman, who has not been named, was taken to a police station in West London and then transferred to police in Northamptonshire who have taken over the investigation. She has since been released on bail.
The 8 year-old girl she was travelling was taken by social services.
Detective Chief Inspector Jane Scotchbrook, from the Sexual Offences, Exploitation and Child Abuse Command, said: “Today’s activity is one aspect of our continued efforts to raise awareness of this form of child abuse, its associated immediate and long-term health risks, and the absence of any religious teaching that supports its undertaking.
“Our focus is on targeting those communities where offences of FGM are prevalent, by engaging with passengers travelling to and from countries where the offence is practised.
“We hope to educate and prevent anyone who may engage in FGM, as well as highlighting the support available to those who may be at risk.”
