Second man held over Stamford Hill child rape

Two men have now been arrested in Stamford Hill following allegations that a child was raped on Sunday morning.

The victim, believed to be an 11-year old boy, was attacked in Old Hill Street.

Later that day, police officers from Sexual Offences Exploitation and Child Abuse Command arrested a 42-year old man on suspicion of rape. He was bailed to return in mid-October.

On Tuesday, a 22 year old man was also arrested, also on suspicion of rape, and by Wednesday afternoon he was still in custody.

Supt. Andy Walker of Hackney Police said: “These sorts of offences are thankfully very rare in this area, but they are particularly upsetting incidents and I understand the effect this may have on the people of Stamford Hill.”

He added: “Detectives from our specialist crime teams are investigating and you will see extra police patrols in the area over the next few days.”

A spokesman for community patrol group Shomrim reminded parents to advise their children never to accept food or gifts from a stranger, even if they are friendly and do not look suspicious.