Man arrested in connection with rape investigation in Portsmouth

Officers investigating the rape of a woman in Portsmouth have now arrested a man in connection with the incident.

At some time between 1am and 2am on Wednesday 17 August, a woman in her 40s was walking along Northern Parade when she asked a man unknown to her for directions. He walked with her for a short while before he raped her.

We have now arrested a 21-year-old man from Portsmouth on suspicion of rape. He remains in police custody at the current time.

The woman involved continues to be supported by specialist officers.

You may recall that we have previously appealed to the public regarding this incident and we would like to thank everyone that has come forward with information.

We would still like to hear from anyone that has any information that may assist our enquiries. You can contact us on 101 quoting reference 44220334437 or via our website: https://www.hampshire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report

You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their anonymous online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org

We would like to remind people of the support available to them if they have been the victim of a sexual offence, including how to report this to us. More details can be found here: https://www.hampshire.police.uk/ro/report/rsa/alpha-v1/advice/rape-sexual-assault-and-other-sexual-offences/