HAMPSHIRE police officers arrested as part of an investigation into serious sexual offences have been released without charge.

Thirteen men were arrested by Hampshire Constabulary, including three serving officers, between December 2014 and February 2015 as part of its Operation Annaside investigation into the alleged offences, which took place on the Isle of Wight.

But all have since answered bail this week and been released with no further action after independent advice from the CPS and a specialist barrister.

Hampshire Constabulary's Isle of Wight District commander, Superintendent Julie Fry said: "Investigating any allegation fully, irrespective of those involved, is essential to maintaining public trust and confidence in policing.

"Lines of enquiry during Operation Annaside have been conducted with meticulous care and precision due to the exceptionally sensitive nature of these allegations, and the impact on the lives, families and welfare of everyone affected.

"We have made every effort to handle this investigation with fairness, transparency and impartial scrutiny.”

The arrests were made following information from a female member of the public on allegations of sexual offences that took place in 2014.

A file was submitted to the CPS in February but the response acknowledged the comprehensive nature of the police investigation, and concluded that there was a lack of supporting evidence.

The three officers were suspended from duty upon their arrest but will return to work later this year.

They will not face any disciplinary proceedings as there are no grounds to suggest any misconduct.

Supt Fry added: "We have full confidence in the honesty and integrity of the three officers, all of whom have been exonerated. They have been supported throughout the investigation by dedicated welfare officers and representatives from the Police Federation.”