Surrey Police Find No Evidence of Reported Gang-Rape in Epsom
Police in Surrey have announced that they have not found any evidence to support reports of a gang-rape in Epsom, following an investigation that prompted protests and widespread speculation in the community. The alleged incident was said to have occurred on April 11, involving a woman in her 20s who left the Labyrinth Epsom nightclub.
Investigation Details and Public Response
Assistant Chief Constable Sarah Grahame of Surrey police stated that the force has conducted a thorough review, including extensive CCTV footage analysis, witness interviews, forensic investigations, and house-to-house enquiries. Despite these efforts, Grahame confirmed, "To date, we have not found any evidence of the offence as reported, but the investigation is ongoing." She emphasized that the limited public comment on suspects' descriptions, including ethnicity, was due to the scarcity of information.
Grahame directly addressed rumors, clarifying that there is no evidence that asylum seekers or immigrants were involved in the alleged crime. This statement came amid protests in Epsom on Wednesday, where demonstrators demanded more details about the incident and suspects. The protest was promoted online by Danny Tommo, a former ally of far-right activist Tommy Robinson.
Community Reaction and Police Measures
The protests, which saw police in protective gear, have stirred strong emotions in Epsom. Rev Catherine Hutton of Epsom Methodist church, near the alleged scene, described the community as "shocked and appalled" by the reports and found the protests "intimidating." She called for unity, stating, "Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that."
Surrey police acknowledged the "strength of feeling" and frustration caused by the speculation. In response, they have increased police presence in Epsom over the weekend and urged anyone with relevant information or footage to come forward to assist the ongoing investigation.
