Two men arrested in connection with a report of rape and kidnap have been freed after police established that the incident did not happen.
Cumbria police released a statement this afternoon to say that the incident in the Coombs Wood area, near Armathwaite, on Sunday October 9, had been ‘thoroughly investigated’.
The statement added: “As a result of that and new information being received, it has been established that the incident reported to police had not occurred.
“Two men, who were initially arrested in connection with the alleged incident, are innocent of any involvement and will face no further action.”
The police investigation included a dedicated team of detectives conducting multiple lines of enquiry to establish the full circumstances of the report, the constabulary said.
Detective Chief Inspector John Graham-Cumming said: “We can reassure the local community that following a thorough investigation by detectives and new information being received and reviewed, it has been established that the incident which was initially reported to police had not occurred.
“A significant dedicated policing resource supported this investigation to ensure it progressed at pace.
“We would like to thank the community for their assistance throughout our investigation and further reassure them there is no further risk to the local community linked to this report.
“The safety and welfare of everyone impacted by this investigation remained a priority throughout.
“Specialist officers will continue to provide support to the reporting party.
“It is our hope that this robust investigation and subsequent update provides reassurance to those communities affected.”
