Four Arrests Following Epsom Protest Over Reported Rape

Surrey Police confirmed four individuals were taken into custody after a protest in Epsom turned chaotic with eggs and beer cans being hurled. The demonstration, which began at 17:00 BST near the train station, was described as escalating into public disorder. Officers with riot shields were deployed to protect a property during the event, as captured in live-stream footage.

A woman in her 20s was reportedly followed shortly after leaving a nightclub on 11 April and attacked outside the Epsom Methodist Church. The incident is under investigation, though police have stated there is currently no evidence linking immigrants or asylum seekers to the crime. During the protest, some participants targeted local hotels and residential buildings, claiming they housed individuals seeking asylum. Surrey Police called these allegations “wholly inaccurate.”

“The aim is to establish the truth, not to apportion blame or fuel anger,” said a protester who read a statement during the live stream. “Residents feel scared and unsafe, and key details seem to be missing from the story.”

The four arrested are being held on suspicion of offenses such as criminal damage and assaulting an emergency worker. A police spokesperson emphasized that footage is still being analyzed to determine further responsibilities. “We will continue working with the local community and partners to ensure all perspectives are considered,” they added.

This week’s protest follows a similar demonstration on Wednesday, where objects were also thrown amid tense scenes. Surrey Police are reviewing CCTV and conducting forensic checks and door-to-door inquiries. Despite the chaos, they have not yet found evidence confirming the reported rape incident as described.

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