Police have closed an investigation into an alleged rape in Epsom, confirming that no sexual offence took place.
Surrey Police said the report, made on April 11, followed claims a woman in her 20s had been attacked near a church after leaving a nightclub in the early hours.
The case prompted public concern and led to protests in the town, with officers facing disorder on the streets.
Following an extensive investigation, the force confirmed the woman had sustained an accidental head injury and made a confused report.
Detectives reviewed CCTV footage, conducted house-to-house enquiries, interviewed witnesses and carried out forensic tests before reaching their conclusion.
In a statement, police said: “We are now confident that there was no offence, and there were no suspects.”
The force acknowledged that limited initial information had contributed to community concern, particularly as no suspect descriptions were released.
Officers said the descriptions available at the time were vague and insufficient to identify any individuals.
The investigation led to unrest in the town, with protests taking place on multiple days.
During one demonstration, police in riot gear were targeted with objects including eggs and cans, and four arrests were made.
Surrey Police and Crime Commissioner Lisa Townsend condemned the disorder, describing the actions as “shameful” and warning individuals who travelled to the area to cause disruption to stay away.
Police said the woman involved had given permission for the update to be shared and continues to receive support from relevant services.
