Police close case into alleged rape that led to protests in Epsom

LocalPolitics
24 Apr 2026 • 2:30 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Police close case into alleged rape that led to protests in Epsom

  • Surrey Police have closed an investigation into an alleged rape in Epsom, concluding that no sexual offence occurred.
  • The incident began on 11 April when a woman in her 20s reported being followed from a nightclub and attacked by several men, which subsequently triggered protests in the town.
  • Initial police statements indicating a lack of sufficient information to release suspect descriptions had caused public concern and led to demonstrations, with four arrests made during public disorder.
  • Police now clarify that the woman sustained an accidental head injury prior to making a 'confused report', and she has given permission for this information to be shared.
  • The force acknowledged that their early statements caused 'concern amongst the community' and confirmed the woman continues to receive support from specialist officers.

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