FOUR people have been arrested on suspicion of rape in connection with ongoing investigations across the county.

Essex Police’s Operational Support Group (OSG) executed the warrants and made the arrests in locations across Colchester and Dunmow yesterday.

Four men were arrested on suspicion of rape in connection with four separate investigations.

In addition to this, the OSG arrested five others last night, February 26, for offences including failure to appeal, grievous bodily harm and burglary.

Supt Phil Stinger said: “The work that our Operational Support Group does supports officers and staff across the force with progressing investigations and ultimately keeping people safe.

“Rape investigations are complex, but our Crime and Public Protection Unit is committed to investigating all reports of sexual offences thoroughly and our OSG officers will continue to support in facilitating arrests such as these.”