Epsom Protests After Alleged Rape Near Church

0:00On April 16th, a woman in her 20s was allegedly raped outside Epsom Methodist Church in Surrey after leaving a nightclub between 2 a.m. and 4 a.m. on Saturday. It's the first incident of this scale in the quiet town, and Surrey police are investigating but can't release suspect descriptions yet. Protests erupted Wednesday evening in Epsom Town Center, promoted online by activist Danny Tomo. Around 200 to 300 people gathered, blocked roads, and some through eggs and objects that helmeted officers holding shields. Reverend Catherine Hutton of the Church called the demos intimidating and said, hate can drive out hate only love can. She noted a universal outpouring of anger in the community over the attack and the need for women to feel safe. Residents like Mark Lackston joined to demand answers from police on suspects and public safety, frustrated by low visibility of officers. Shop owners shut down early around 5.30 p.m. as tensions rose with police vowing to respect lawful protests but crack down on disorder.

1:03Meanwhile, the reverence urging folks to unite Thursday outside the church for an active hope, declaring their good people standing for justice. Police want dash cam footage or witnesses, call with reference PR slash 45260041 426 or crime stoppers anonymously.