TWO teenage girls were reportedly sexually assaulted by a group of men on Bournemouth beach.

It was reported that the two 16-year-old girls were assaulted while sat on lilos in the sea on Monday, August 12.

Between 1.30pm and 2pm the girls were in the water to the east of Bournemouth Pier when they encountered a group of men with two double lilos.

The girls sat on one of the lilos before the men reportedly touched them inappropriately.

They jumped off and made their way back to the shore.

A 22-year-old man from London has since been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and was subsequently released on police bail.

Detective constable Hele Leech-Wilkinson, of BCP CID, said: “We are continuing to investigate this incident and work is ongoing to identify two other men reported to be involved.

“I would urge anyone who was at the beach on the afternoon of Monday 12 August 2024 and witnessed any suspicious activity, or anybody with further information that might assist our investigation, to please contact us.”

A spokesperson said: “Dorset Police is working with local partners to provide a visible presence on Bournemouth seafront throughout the summer months and officers can be approached by anyone with information or concerns.

“Anyone with information can also contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55240123808. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.”