COPS have launched an urgent probe after two girls, 16, were ‘sexually assaulted’ by a group of men at Bournemouth Beach.
The alleged attack unfolded between 1.30pm and 2pm on Monday, August 12, at the popular Dorset coastline.
Two 16-year-old girls were reportedly approached by a group of men, who had two double lilos.
The teens sat on the inflatables and were allegedly “touched inappropriately” by the men, while in the sea.
Dorset Police said the youngsters quickly left the scene and swam back to the shoreline.
Officers have since arrested a 22-year-old man, from London, on suspicion of sexual assault.
The suspect has been released on bail while police enquiries continue.
A spokesperson for the force said: “It was reported that between 1.30pm and 2pm on Monday 12 August 2024 two 16-year-old girls were in the sea at Bournemouth Beach, to the east of Bournemouth pier, when they encountered a group of men who had two double lilos.
“The girls sat on one of the lilos and while they were on it, they were touched inappropriately by the men.
“The girls then jumped off the lilo and made their way back to shore.
“Following enquiries by officers, a 22-year-old man from the London area was arrested on suspicion of sexual assault. He was subsequently released on police bail as further enquiries are carried out.”
Detective Constable Hele Leech-Wilkinson, of BCP CID, said: “We are continuing to investigate this incident and work is ongoing to identify two other men reported to be involved.
“I would urge anyone who was at the beach on the afternoon of Monday 12 August 2024 and witnessed any suspicious activity, or anybody with further information that might assist our investigation, to please contact us.
“Dorset Police is working with local partners to provide a visible presence on Bournemouth seafront throughout the summer months and officers can be approached by anyone with information or concerns.”
Anyone with information can contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55240123808.
Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.
