A police force whose handling of an alleged rape outside a church sparked protests in a town centre has said there is no evidence the incident took place as reported or that any immigrants or asylum seekers were involved.
Surrey Police previously received a report that a woman in her 20s had been followed and assaulted outside the church in Ashley Road, Epsom, after leaving Labyrinth Epsom nightclub on Saturday between 2am and 4am.
The force are yet to provide any descriptions of suspects, which led to a large crowd of protesters gathering on Wednesday evening.
In a statement issued on Friday, the force said: “There has been much speculation about the non-release of a description of any suspects, especially regarding the ethnicity.
“No descriptions have been released as the information about the incident and potential suspects is so limited.
“To address the specific commentary, there is no evidence that asylum seekers or immigrants were involved.”
Assistant Chief Constable for local policing Sarah Grahame also said in her statement that after reviewing CCTV, carrying out forensic investigations and speaking to witnesses, the force has “not found any evidence of the offence as reported”.
The officer added: “We are aware of the strength of feeling this has created, and of the frustration caused by our limited public comment on the matter.”
Objects appeared to be thrown at police during Wednesday’s protests, with dozens of officers seen wearing helmets and holding shields.
The protest was promoted online by Danny Tommo, a former associate of right-wing activist Tommy Robinson.
Organisers of the demonstration had a meeting with the force on Thursday, which they said left them “reassured” but not “satisfied”.
Police have urged anyone with CCTV, dashcam, or helmet camera footage to contact them online, or via 101 quoting the reference number PR/45260041426.
