Boy, 12, arrested over 'rape bid'

A 12-year-old boy has been arrested following an attempted rape of an eight-year-old boy in Greater Manchester.

The boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has since been bailed pending further inquiries.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed that they received reports of the attempted rape in the Gorton area, sometime between 3.30pm and 9.20pm on June 26.

They have stressed that parents ought not to be fearful.

Detective Inspector Carol Hobson said: "I understand that this incident will cause of a lot of anxiety and distress in the local community and there may well be lots of speculation about what happened.

"Although I cannot go into any details about what happened, I do want to stress this was not a random stranger attack and there is no reason for any parents living in this area to be fearful."

The young boy was subsequently spoken to by specially-trained officers and a crime of attempted rape has now been recorded by Greater Manchester Police.

Sensitive investigation

Ms Hobson added: "Clearly, given the ages of all those involved, this will be a very sensitive and delicate investigation and I would ask that the local community allow our officers to carry out those inquiries, not speculate on social media and if you have any information or concerns, then please approach us.

"We are continuing to offer support to the young boy and his family and we are working alongside a number of different partner agencies with regard to safeguarding measures and ensuring everyone involved has access to the appropriate help and advice."

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.