Five teenage boys arrested on suspicion of rape in Newark

Five teenage boys have been arrested on suspicion of rape.

Nottinghamshire Police were called to reports of a serious sexual assault in an alleyway off St Mary's Memorial Gardens, in Newark, at about 19:45 on Thursday.

The five boys, aged 14, 14, 15, 16 and 16, all remain in custody for questioning.

Detective Inspector Stuart Barson, who is leading the investigation, said: “Our officers are continuing to support the victim and her family in every way we can following this distressing incident.

“We also understand the impact an incident of this nature can have on the wider community so multiple police teams are working hard to ensure support is there for anyone who needs it.

“We hope people living in the area are reassured by our robust response and the increase in high-visibility patrols we have put in place since Thursday night.

“Thankfully, incidents like this are extremely rare and as a force we will never tolerate violence against women and girls.

“Members of the victim’s family have been informed of the latest developments and I am pleased we now have a total of five suspects in custody.

“However, this remains an ongoing investigation and anyone with any information which could help our inquiries should get in touch immediately.”

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