Two men have been arrested following a string of sex attacks in Gillingham and Rainham, as police warn women not to walk alone.

In the latest incident a woman was assaulted in an alleyway which runs between Berengrave Lane and Lower Bloors Lane in Rainham on Monday. Police were called to Berengrave Lane at 1.30pm.

One witness said the area was swarming with police and another witness, who lives nearby, said there were around six police officers and an ambulance by the public footpath.

Officers were making door to door inquiries, as the force’s helicopter was scrambled to help patrols in searching the area.

Later the same day, a 49-year-old, from the town, was arrested on suspicion of sexual assault. He has been bailed, pending further investigations, until November 15.

Another man has been arrested following two assaults in the Gillingham area earlier this month.

A woman was sexually assaulted in Beresford Road, at around 5.30am on October 13. On October 16, another woman was sexually assaulted in Woodlands Road, between 9.20am and 9.45am.

A 48-year-old Rochester man was arrested on Wednesday, on suspicion of sexual offences. He remains in custody.

Police said they are not ruling out that the attacks may be linked and are warning women to avoid walking alone.

DCI Ian Humpheryes said: “We have a team of officers reviewing these incidents and we are not ruling out that they may be linked at this time.

“The chance of becoming a victim of crime is low, but there are a number of things you can do to help keep yourself safe.

“With the longer, darker days, try to avoid walking alone. If you have to walk alone when it’s dark, make sure you stick to well-lit and busy areas, and let others know where you’re going and when you will be home.

“If you feel threatened, shout loudly, run away and call the police at the earliest, safest opportunity.

“Kent Police is committed to bringing offenders to justice and putting them before the courts.”

Anybody with any information regarding any of the incidents is asked to call DS Paul Fewtrell on 01634 792350.

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