Five teenagers are now in custody following a serious sexual assault on a girl.
The incident took place in an alleyway off St Mary’s Memorial Gardens, Newark, at around 7.45pm on Thursday (28 December 2023).
Detectives investigating the incident are continuing to question a 16-year-old boy who was arrested on suspicion of rape on Saturday (30 December).
Four further boys, aged 14, 14, 15 and 16, have been arrested on suspicion of rape today (31 December).
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.”
Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is asked to call Nottinghamshire Police on 101, quoting incident number 666 of 28 December 2023, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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