Update: Arrest made in connection with Bournemouth rape investigation
Detectives investigating a report of a rape in Bournemouth have made an arrest.
It is reported that the victim – a 19-year-old woman – was walking in the area of Lansdowne Road, between the flyover above the A338 and Beechey Road, between around 1.30am and 1.45am on Sunday 26 February 2023 when she was sexually assaulted by a man.
An investigation was launched, led by Dorset Police’s Major Crime Investigation Team, and on Monday 20 March 2023 a CCTV appeal was issued of a man detectives wished to identify. We can now update that following further detailed enquiries, an 18-year-old man was arrested just after 5.40pm on Tuesday 21 March 2023 on suspicion of rape.
Detective Inspector Mark Jenkins, of Dorset Police’s Major Crime Investigation Team, said: “We have been carrying out detailed enquiries into this incident and, as a result, we have made an arrest. Specialist officers continue to support the victim, who has been updated with this development.
“Our investigation remains ongoing into this incident, and I am still keen to speak to a man who came to the aid of the victim as I believe he may hold vital information. I would also like to hear from any motorists who were travelling along Lansdowne Road or Beechey Road during the relevant time frame or residents who may have captured something on their home CCTV or doorbell cameras.”
Detectives are urging anyone with information, images or footage relevant to the investigation to submit it via the UK Police Major Incident Public Portal at https://mipp.police.uk/operation/55HQ22M88-PO1. We would ask that information is submitted through the MIPP if possible, for anyone without access to the internet contact can be made via 101, quoting occurrence 55230033381.
Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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