Gang watches as six youths rape teenagers
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.TWO schoolgirls were surrounded by a gang of 25 youths in an alleyway in south-east London and repeatedly raped, a senior detective said last night.
The two friends, one 14 and the other 15, were approached by about four young men as they entered McDonald's in Catford about 7.45pm on Wednesday. They then found themselves surrounded by about 25 youths, and were frogmarched to an alleyway at the back of the Rising Sun pub near by. There they were raped and indecently assaulted by about six of the youths while the others cheered them on.
Detective Inspector Phil Kent, who is leading the hunt for the rapists, said: 'It is an absolutely dreadful attack. Unfortunately I have come across crimes like this before but the sheer numbers involved in this is extraordinary. I am surprised by the large number involved but I have spoken to both girls and they say the same thing. Most of them were there as spectators or keeping watch or holding the girls down.
'It appears that about six of the youths were involved in the actual attack. I would appeal to the others who were watching to contact us so we can sort this out. The two girls are coping remarkably well but I have a feeling the shock aspect has not quite come out yet.'
Police are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information to contact them at Catford CID on 081 697 9212, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments