A spokesperson for Surrey Police said: “We are aware of reports of groups organising gatherings in the wake of last week’s report.”
Speculation about the rape investigation led to a large demonstration (Image: Ben Montgomery/Getty Images)
A spokesperson for Surrey Police that enquiries into a report of rape in Epsom “remain ongoing.”
There has been significant public speculation about a report of rape from April 11. Police initially released a statement saying that a woman in her 20s has said she was raped by several men outside Epsom Methodist Church on Ashley Road.
This caused significant concern within the local community, as well as online commentary that focused on identifying any suspects.
On Wednesday (April 15) there was a large demonstration in the town centre, which blocked the road, causing disruption to motorists. In response, riot police were deployed.
Then on Friday (April 17) Assistant Chief Constable for Local Policing, Sarah Grahame said that: “to date, we have not found any evidence of the offence as reported but the investigation is ongoing.”
Surrey Police has now provided further details about their investigation, stating that: “We continue to engage with our local communities as we have done over the weekend, with officers remaining in Epsom to provide reassurance and to answer any concerns or questions residents may have.
“Our increased police presence in the town on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings was specifically to address concerns about women’s safety.”
The spokesperson added that the investigation remains ongoing, and has so far included reviewing “an extensive amount of CCTV footage from the area, carrying out forensics investigations and conducting house-to-house enquiries.”
Another demonstration has been planned for Monday afternoon. Police say: “We are aware of reports of groups organising gatherings in the wake of last week’s report.
“We will continue to work with those seeking to protest, along with our partners and the local community, to ensure everyone’s views can be heard.
“While we respect the right to lawful protest and will always aim to balance the rights of all parties involved, criminal offences and public disorder will not be tolerated, and we will always take robust action against anyone who commits a criminal offence.”