A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of rape in connection with an alleged sexual assault in Christchurch.

Detectives launched an investigation following a report that a woman had been raped by a man in the early hours of Friday, October 21, in the underpass which links the town centre and Bargates.

The alleged rape was reported to Dorset Police at 8.32am on October 21.

A police cordon was in place around the subway throughout Friday.

Bournemouth Echo:

Providing an update on Saturday, October 22, a force spokesperson said following inquiries a 46-year-old man from Christchurch had been arrested on suspicion of rape.

Detective Inspector Shaun Inkpen, of Dorset Police, said: “Our enquiries remain ongoing, and I would again urge any witnesses, or anyone with information relating to this incident, to please come forward.”

Bournemouth Echo:

Anyone with information should contact Dorset Police at dorset.police.uk/contact or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55220171411.

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.

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