Protests erupt after Epsom church assault claim, police find no proof

Police investigating an alleged assault near a church in Epsom have said no evidence has been found so far to support the claim, even as the incident triggered protests and widespread speculation online.Surrey Police said inquiries remain ongoing and urged the public not to share unverified information, SKY news reported.The investigation began after a young woman reported feeling followed while leaving a venue in Epsom late on Saturday night. The alleged incident was said to have taken place between 2 am and 4 am near a church on Ashley Road.The report quickly gained traction on social media, fuelling speculation about those allegedly involved. However, officers said extensive inquiries have so far failed to substantiate the claim.Police have reviewed CCTV footage, conducted door-to-door enquiries, and carried out forensic searches in the area. Detective Inspector Sarah Grahame said that despite “thorough and detailed” efforts, no evidence has emerged to confirm the reported assault.She also warned against misinformation circulating online, including claims linking the incident to asylum seekers or migrants, saying such speculation was unfounded and unhelpful to the investigation.The lack of official details led to protests in the town earlier this week, with demonstrators gathering in the town centre and calling for greater transparency. Some roads were briefly blocked as police monitored the situation.Surrey Police have increased patrols in the area to reassure residents and maintain public order. Officers reiterated that the investigation is ongoing and that all lines of inquiry continue to be examined.Authorities and community leaders have appealed for calm, urging people to rely on verified updates and avoid spreading rumours during a sensitive investigation.