Police investigations continue following flash 'peaceful protest' regarding alleged attack in Skegness
Lincolnshire Police say they are continuing to investigate an alleged assault in Skegness that resulted in a flash ‘peaceful protest’ on the seafront over the Bank Holiday.
In contrast to previous occasions where around 100 protestors voiced their concerns with marches through the town, only a few Unite The Right UK activists from across the country took part.
They set up yesterday (Sunday) on the seafront near to where they alleged an attack on a woman took place, under the slogan, ‘We want answers’,
Earlier, police issued a statement saying they had become aware of information circulating online about a recent incident, some of which they described as ‘incorrect’.
Police said their ‘active and ongoing investigation’ related to the reported assault of a woman in her 40s, believed to have taken place in the North Parade area on April 26.
A 25-year-old man from Sudan had been arrested in connection with the incident and remained on police bail, police said.
“We are investigating whether this incident was sexually motivated in nature and officers are working hard to establish the exact circumstances involved,” police said.
“Investigating officers have been carrying out numerous lines of inquiry since this incident was reported to us and continue to do so.”
However, protestors claimed on social media that there had been a ‘cover up’ regarding the circumstances of the attack. Various videos were also released during the protest asking why more information had not been released by the police at the time of the incident.
In response, police said: “We understand that rumours about this incident may have caused concern, and that people want answers, but we would remind the public that a suspect has been arrested and our investigation is ongoing.”
Police added: “It is important to avoid speculation online, especially that which is rooted in incorrect information, as this can impact the integrity of an investigation and any future court proceedings.
“What’s shared online can unintentionally affect witnesses, victims, and the legal process.
“Our focus is to carry out a fair and thorough investigation and officers are working diligently to establish the full facts.
"We will provide updates when it is appropriate to do so, and would reassure the public that all details which can be shared at this stage have been.”
Following the protest, the Skegness Standard invited protestors to make a statement for publication, but there has so far been no response. Police say they have no further comment at this time.