Police investigating an alleged rape by four boys in a Morrisons car park have now said there are two suspected victims.
Officers were called to the Newbold area of Rochdale on 10 February and four boys – aged between 12 and 14 – were arrested.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) originally said there was one suspected rape victim.
However, in an update, it said two girls are believed to have been attacked and that it was now a rape and sexual assault investigation.
The boys were in custody until the early hours of Wednesday before being released on bail.
GMP said the two girls had been safeguarded and that extra officers were in the Newbold area to reassure the public.
Detective Superintendent Phil Key said: “The four suspects arrested at the weekend have been bailed with strict conditions.
“We are continuing to liaise with the CPS to ensure the investigation progresses towards a prosecution.
“I can assure the victims and our communities that securing justice is our priority.
“As to not impact the possibility of justice in this case, I would continue to ask the public to refrain from speculating on social media about the names of the victims and suspects involved. By law, they are all entitled to anonymity.”
Source Agencies
