Police Issue Disorder Warning After Epsom Rape Protest
Surrey Police has warned against public disorder after a demonstration in Epsom sparked by the rape of a woman outside a church. The protest, which took place on Wednesday evening, saw riot officers deployed as crowds demanded details about the suspects involved. Prior to the event, the force had issued only two official statements regarding the incident, with the second noting a lack of “sufficient information” to identify the perpetrators.
The BBC has sought additional information from Surrey Police multiple times since the attack occurred on Saturday. The police confirmed the rape happened in the early hours near Epsom Methodist Church, following the victim—a woman in her 20s—who had been followed after leaving the Labyrinth Epsom nightclub. Officers emphasized the need for caution in speculating about the suspects, warning that such actions could “lead to additional tensions within our local communities.”
Protest Actions and Police Response
Dozens of police were stationed on Epsom High Street during the demonstration, where footage showed protesters hurling objects at officers. The crowd also obstructed traffic, according to the force. Ch Supt Mark Chapman stated:
“We respect the right to lawful protest and will facilitate this wherever possible where it is safe to do so. However, criminal offences and public disorder will not be tolerated, and we will always take robust action against anyone who commits a criminal offence.”
Chapman explained that the “significant police presence” was intended to “support the group’s right to lawful protest and minimise disruption to the local community.” While acknowledging the protest “may have caused concern to people in the town centre,” he stressed that the primary goal was “ensuring the safety of the wider public, as well as those involved in the protest.”
Community Efforts and Political Reaction
Epsom Methodist Church is set to host a “community act” on Thursday, focusing on “raising our voices for women who are vulnerable and all who are victimised.” Earlier, Epsom MP Helen Maguire expressed “appalled” sentiments over the attack, highlighting its impact on the local area. Police are still seeking witnesses, especially anyone who observed a woman in distress on Ashley Road between 02:00 and 04:00 BST on Saturday.
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