Investigation launched into rape of 12-year-old boy in Bromham in 2018

Officers are appealing for information
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Police have released an e-fit image after a boy recently reported being raped in Bromham in 2018.

Officers from Bedfordshire Police’s Public Protection Unit have released the e-fit image and are appealing for information.

A 12-year-old boy was running towards Bromham Bridge from Bedford at around 6pm in late August 2018, when he was grabbed from behind by a man, and taken to a car that was parked nearby where he was raped.

Police have released an e-fit image and are appealing for informationPolice have released an e-fit image and are appealing for information
Police have released an e-fit image and are appealing for information

After around 15 minutes, he managed to escape his attacker and run home.

The man is described as then being in his late 30s or early 40s, around 6 foot, with ginger hair and stubble. He was wearing black tracksuit bottoms and a zip up hoodie.

It is believed the car was a black five-door model Ford Focus or Fiesta.

Detective Constable Rebecca Goodman, investigating, said: “It has taken great courage for a young boy to come forward now and report this shocking incident.

“This happened on a warm summer’s evening in a popular walking spot, and although we appreciate this was some time ago we hope something may stick in your memory about that evening.

“Do you recognise the man pictured?

"Did you see anyone acting suspiciously, or a boy running, and can now help us piece together the events of that evening.

"Any information, however small, could help us to progress this investigation."

If you were in the area at this time, regularly walk those routes, or have any information, please report online or call 101, quoting reference 40/65136/20.

Alternatively, contact independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.