A 31-year-old man from Bournemouth has been arrested on suspicion of raping a teenager in a public toilet near Undercliff Drive at Bournemouth Beach. The incident reportedly occurred in the early hours of Sunday, July 6, 2025.
Dorset Police responded promptly after the victim, a woman in her late teens, reported the assault. The suspect remains in custody while investigations continue. Detective Inspector Shaun Inkpen of the Dorset Police Major Crime Investigation Team emphasized the thorough nature of the ongoing inquiry.
Authorities are appealing for witnesses, particularly targeting a couple who were walking a brown, mid-sized dog along the beach and promenade near the time of the incident. Additionally, police want to speak with a man dressed in dark clothing carrying a backpack who was seen near Bournemouth Pier and the zig-zag path towards East Cliff around the same time.
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The victim also interacted with a group of people shortly after the attack at the base of the Toft Zig Zag path. Police believe these individuals might have valuable information to assist the investigation.
A temporary police cordon was established at the scene but has since been lifted. Officers remain active in the area to provide reassurance and gather further evidence. Specialist officers continue to support the victim throughout this difficult time.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Dorset Police via their website or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55250097668. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling 0800 555 111.