This is an updated version of a previous article.
The original article will be posted underneath the following update:
FOLLOWING the report of a rape in Reading on Tuesday, June 28, Thames Valley Police launched an “immediate and thorough” investigation.
A woman in her twenties reported that she had been raped by four unknown men in an alleyway near McIlroy Park, Tilehurst, at around 10pm on Monday, June 27.
Though “extensive inquiries” were carried out, officers are no longer investigating an incident of rape, and no other investigations in relation to this incident are set to take place.
Detective Chief Inspector Dave Turton, based at Reading police station, said: “We received a report of a rape by four men, and commenced an immediate, urgent investigation.
“However, following a thorough examination of CCTV footage in the local area, as well as speaking to potential witnesses and investigating the scene, we are now satisfied that the incident has not occurred as reported.
“We would like to reassure the people of Reading that we took the initial report very seriously and deployed a number of resources into investigating the report as a priority, including placing a scene-watch in the area of McIlroy Park.
“It would not be helpful to speculate as to the reasons of the initial report, but I would like to thank the public and local community for coming forward to support information which assisted in this investigation.
“As a result of our investigation, at this stage, we are no longer appealing for further information.
“The reported incident understandably caused a great deal of community concern.
“Attacks such as initially reported are mercifully rare and will always be treated extremely seriously and thoroughly investigated, and would re-iterate my thanks to the local community for coming forward with information.
“We take all reports of rape and violence against women extremely serious and would encourage any victims to report it to police.”
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THAMES Valley Police have issued an appeal for information in connection with a rape investigation in Reading.
At around 10pm on Monday, June 27, a woman in her twenties was walking through an alleyway near McIlroy Park, Tilehurst, when four unknown men raped and assaulted her.
The victim then walked to Royal Berkshire Hospital, where she was treated and the incident was reported to the police.
The first offender is described as a mixed race man aged in his twenties, just over 6ft tall, of skinny build, and wearing a grey tracksuit.
The second offender is described as a mixed race man, aged in his twenties, shorter than 6ft tall, of slim build, with short, dark hair in tight curls, and wearing jeans and a black t-shirt.
The third and fourth offenders are described as mixed race men in their twenties with short, dark, curly hair.
Detective Inspector Laura Corscadden, based at Reading police station, said: “This is a concerning incident but I would like to reassure the community that we are carrying out a thorough investigation.
“Our specialist officers are working to support the victim in connection with this incident.
“Members of the public may see an increased police presence while we continue to investigate and I would advise anyone with concerns to please speak to one of our officers.
“Anyone with any information relating to this incident should come forward.
“Also I would ask anyone who has CCTV, a dash-cam or a video doorbell to please check their footage and get in touch if it shows anything that could assist our enquiries.
“Those with information should call 101 or make a report on our website, quoting reference number 43220240527.
“Alternatively, you can provide information completely anonymously to the independent charity, Crimestoppers, by calling 0800 555 111 or via its website.”
Online reports can be made via: www.thamesvalley.police.uk
