Man arrested over rape investigation on Southampton Common
A man from Southampton remains in police custody as officers continue their enquiries
A 42-year-old man from Southampton has been arrested on suspicion of rape after a woman in her 30s was attacked on Southampton Common.
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary said he was arrested yesterday, Sunday 8th November and remains in police custody.
Police said the rape happened near Cemetery Road shortly after 5.30am on Saturday 7th November, and an investigation was launched immediately.
Officers have been carrying out extensive enquiries and reassurance patrols in the Southampton Common area and surrounding areas, and are continuing to do so.
A police scene was in place at the location while forensic work and other enquiries were carried out, but it has now been lifted.
The woman continues to be supported by specialist officers from Operation Amberstone, the force's rape and serious sexual offences team.
Police said significant resources remain deployed to the investigation.
What police have said
Acting Detective Inspector Graham Slack said: "Since this incident was first reported to us our teams, detectives and officers have been working tirelessly to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident."
He also said: "The arrest is a significant and important development in our investigation, but our work does not end here. Whilst the arrested man is in our custody and being interviewed in connection with the incident, our other investigative work and enquiries continue, including further house-to-house visits, speaking to people in the local area, and reviewing CCTV and other footage."
Acting DI Slack said: "This was an extremely distressing incident for the woman involved and our specialist officers are continuing to support her. She has been updated on the details of the arrest."
He added: "We understand the concern that this incident will also cause to those who live in the area, as well as the wider community. If you have concerns or questions, please get in touch with us."
Acting DI Slack also said: "I would also like to thank our communities in the area of the incident for all their support, information and cooperation in our investigation to date."
Appeal for information
Detectives are still appealing for information.
Acting DI Slack said: "If you saw or heard anything in the area of the incident yesterday morning, no matter how small you believe this to be, your information could be crucial to our investigation, so please contact us."
Officers from the local Neighbourhood Policing Team have been carrying out reassurance patrols in the area.
Anyone with information, concerns or questions is being encouraged to speak to them.
Anyone with information is asked to call 101 and quote incident number 44260545717.
Police also want to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time, witnessed anything suspicious, or has footage that may help, including mobile phone, dash cam, doorbell camera or other CCTV.
Information can also be reported online via the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary website.
Alternatively, people can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.