Four boys aged between 12 and 14 have been arrested on suspicion of rape, according to police in Rochdale.
Officers were called to reports of a rape in the Newbold area at around 18:00 GMT on Saturday, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said. The quartet – aged 12, 13, 14, and 14 – were arrested and remain in custody. A crime scene on Kingsway is still in place and the “young female” victim is being supported, the force added.
Forensic officers have been at the scene throughout the day. A police dog team joined the efforts, searching through undergrowth in the area. The sealed off area is in a corner of a busy car park, 100m (328ft) from the entrance to the supermarket and just 50m (164ft) from the Newbold tram stop, where people commute into and out of Rochdale town centre.
Police have issued an appeal for anyone who was in the area or may have seen something to get in touch. A spokesperson for GMP said: “At around 6pm on Saturday 10 February 2024, officers were called to reports of a rape in Newbold, Rochdale.
“Four boys aged 12, 13, 14, 14 have been arrested on suspicion of rape and remain in police custody.
“The victim is currently being supported by specialist officers.
“If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police, or a support agency so you can get the help and support available.”
— CutC by bbc.com
