Detectives have arrested an 18-year-old man who fled the scene after a woman in her 20s was lured into a seaside alleyway and allegedly raped.
The victim was attacked in Lowestoft, Suffolk, in the early hours of this morning.
According to Suffolk Police, the incident began shortly after midnight following an encounter at a local venue.
The group then travelled together to The Volunteer on London Road North.
After exiting the vehicle, the victim and the man walked toward Milton Road East.
The suspect entered the same taxi as the victim and her friend outside Blues bar.
At approximately 12.10 am, police say the man led the woman into an alleyway near Arnold Street, where the sexual assault took place.
Following the attack, the suspect allegedly fled the scene on foot via London Road North and Gordon Road.
Suffolk Police confirmed today that an 18-year-old male has been arrested on suspicion of rape.
He remains in custody at the Great Yarmouth Police Investigation Centre for questioning.
A forensic cordon remains in place near the junction of Arnold Street as a ‘probe’ into the incident continues. Officers are expected to remain in attendance throughout the day to gather evidence and conduct door-to-door inquiries.
Providing a statement, the force said: ‘Police have today arrested an 18-year-old man from Lowestoft on suspicion of rape.
‘He has been taken to Great Yarmouth Police investigation Centre where he will be questioned.
‘A police scene is currently in place and the local community can expect to see an increased police presence in and around the area.
‘Witnesses or anyone who may have any relevant doorbell, dashcam, or CCTV footage from around the time of the incident should contact Suffolk police quoting 37/19054/26.
‘If you or someone you know has been a victim of rape or sexual assault, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police.’
