Police issue key updates in rape inquiry
DETECTIVES investigating the rape of a teenage girl in Rochdale have revealed they believe she had spoken to the offender online in the days leading up to the attack.
They also believe the incident happened in a vehicle in Smallbridge and not in an alleyway in Wardle, as previously stated.
A 44-year-old man from Salford was arrested on suspicion of rape on Monday. He was later arrested on suspicion of inciting the sexual exploitation of a child.
He has now been released on bail pending further enquiries, police said.
Police were called just after 5pm on Wednesday, January 15, to reports a 16-year-old girl was raped.
The investigation is continuing and specialist officers are ‘pursuing significant lines of enquiry,’ a GMP spokesman said.
A number of rumours have circulated on social media following the attack, police said.
Members of the public have been asked by detectives to refrain from spreading the rumours as it is distressing for the family.
Supt Richard Hunt, of GMP’s Rochdale division, said: “The welfare of the victim remains a top priority and, as such, specialist officers and partner agencies are continuing to support her and her family at what is, undoubtedly, a distressing time for them.
“I would like to use this opportunity to thank members of the public for their response to our appeal and, in particular, the people of Wardle who have been patient whilst investigation work caused disruption in the area. I am aware of rumours circulating in the community and on social media and the understandable concerns of members of the public but I would ask that they refrain from circulating these rumours or speculating about what happened as it will inevitably cause further distress for the victim and her family.
“Instead, I would encourage anyone with information that may assist us to get in touch with the investigation team.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 0161 836 4646, quoting 2066 January 15.