Sixth arrest as police given more time in rape probe

OFFICERS investigating the rape of a 19-year-old woman in Buckland have been granted more time to interview five suspects and have made a sixth arrest.

A 19-year-old was approached by two men as she walked along Lake Road, before she was attacked on Turner Road just before 1am on Sunday.

An area near and around Ark Dickens Primary School was taped off and evidence markers laid out on the ground as officers carried out enquiries.

Later the same day, two men both aged 18 years old and two boys aged 17 years old, as well as a 16-year-old boy, were arrested on suspicion of rape.

They remain in custody following after their detention was extended until Wednesday morning so they can undergo further questioning.

Police have announced that yesterday they arrested a sixth person, a 17 year-old boy, on suspicion of rape.

He has been released from custody without charge, but remains under investigation.

The victim is continuing to receive support from specialist officers, a spokeswoman from Hampshire Constabulary said.

She said: ‘We remain keen to speak with anyone who may have information which could assist our enquiries.

‘If you saw anyone acting suspiciously around the area of Lake Road and Turner Road early on Sunday morning, or if you have dash cam or CCTV footage from the area, then please contact us.’

‘You will continue to see uniformed officers patrolling the area.

‘If you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to speak with them.’

Anyone with information is asked to call the police on 101, quoting the reference 44200364429.

Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.