‘No evidence’ alleged rape of woman in Oxfordshire took place, say police
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Version 0 of 2. Police say investigation found no evidence reported attack on woman in her 30s in Banbury last weekend happened Police say they have found no evidence that an alleged rape of a woman by a group of men in a churchyard in Oxfordshire last weekend took place. Earlier this week, Thames Valley police said there was no information to link the alleged attack on a woman in her 30s outside St Mary’s Church in Banbury to migrant accommodation as they attempted to quell online speculation. A police spokesperson has now said there was no evidence the alleged offence took place. The spokesperson said: “A Thames Valley police investigation into an alleged rape in Banbury last weekend has found no evidence the offence took place as reported. Therefore, we are not currently seeking anyone in relation to this investigation. “The original report was made to us by a third party, who stated that a woman had been raped by a group of men in St Mary’s Church churchyard in the early hours of Sunday morning. We continue to support the woman involved.” Following the incident, police said a woman was raped by a group of men. Officers said they wanted to trace a “good samaritan” they believe might have tried to help the woman, as well as anyone else who might have information. The church cancelled Sunday’s parish Eucharist and said it was praying for the victim. As speculation grew about a link to migrant accommodation, police put out a statement in which it said: “We are aware of speculation circulating regarding the possible ethnic background or origin of the individuals connected to this incident. At this stage we have no further verified description of those involved, and any assumptions being made are unfounded and unhelpful to the investigation.” It added: “We can confirm there is no information at this stage to link this investigation to migrant accommodation. We urge the public to refrain from speculation.” |