Woman who made viral rape complaints on Facebook arrested on suspicion of wasting police time

A woman in her 20's has been taken into custody on suspicion of wasting police time following a Facebook post alleging a gang rape that spread rapidly across social media.

The allegations triggered several days of concern in the Kent town of Sittingbourne.

The claim, which alleged a sexual assault had taken place at Milton Regis Recreation Ground, circulated widely through local online communities before officers became aware of it.

However, Kent Police confirmed they received no direct report about the purported attack.

Following their own investigation prompted by the social media activity, police found no evidence to support the allegation.

According to the viral post, the alleged incident involved a woman being attacked by four men dressed in tracksuits at approximately 9pm on Saturday evening.

The claim spread swiftly through numerous local Facebook groups, including the Gossip Board of Sittingbourne, a community page with around 46,000 members.

The post called on anyone with relevant information to contact authorities.

Despite the widespread sharing and public concern generated by the allegation, police say they were never approached directly by anyone reporting the supposed crime, only becoming aware of the claims through the social media posts themselves.

Officers arrested the woman on Wednesday and transported her to a local police station, where she was questioned about the posts.

She has subsequently been released on bail as the investigation into the matter continues.

Swale district commander Chief Inspector Vanessa Foster addressed the situation.

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She said: "We were made aware of social media posts about an allegation of rape.

"Despite not receiving a direct report to the force about the alleged offence, officers have conducted initial inquiries based on the information available.

"At this time, we have found no evidence to suggest the offence took place.

"It is important the local community is assured that we take allegations of this nature seriously and those responsible for the social media post have been spoken to directly."

The officer added: "This has resulted in the arrest of a woman in her 20s on suspicion of wasting police time.

"She has since been released on bail pending further inquiries.

"I want victims of sexual assault and rape to know we will take their reports seriously, we will carry out a full and thorough investigation, and we will provide them with the support they need."

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