Two men have been arrested after a 19-year-old reported being raped in Brighton’s historic district, The Lanes.
The incident occurred early on Saturday morning at around 3:30 am. The teenager claimed that he was approached by two strangers near Harry Ramsden’s fish and chip shop in Old Steine and later taken to nearby Steine Lane, where he was allegedly attacked.
The victim managed to alert a passerby immediately after the incident, who then contacted Sussex Police.
Five days later, the police announced the arrest of two men in connection with the case. A 40-year-old man from Redhill, Surrey, was arrested in Esher, and a 42-year-old man from Chessington, Kingston-Upon-Thames, was detained in Ramsgate, Kent. Both men were taken into custody on suspicion of rape and remain in custody as the investigation continues.
Detective Inspector Sean Booth praised the combined efforts of law enforcement and the public, commenting, “These arrests were as a direct result of excellent work from our dedicated team of staff, officers, and the public.”
The teenager continues to receive support from specialist officers throughout the ongoing investigation.
Sussex Police have urged anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward. Members of the public can contact the police online or by calling 101 and referencing Operation Attach.
This case remains under investigation, seeking further insights and clarity to secure justice for the victim.