Kent Police were called at 5:45am on Thursday, 18 July 2024, following a report of a woman being raped in the Marlborough Road area of Gillingham. A man has been arrested, and enquiries to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident are ongoing.

The incident has led to considerable disruption for residents and commuters, particularly those attempting to access the nearby hospital, Brompton Academy, and Westbrook. The police have cordoned off a large area, significantly affecting pedestrian access to the Lines opposite the Paget Street junction. This has caused inconvenience and confusion for those in the vicinity.

As of now, police have not released any further details about the nature of the incident, leading to frustration among the local community.

It’s been chaotic trying to get to the hospital,” said one local resident. “No one knows what’s going on, and it’s causing a lot of stress.”

Local schools, including Brompton Academy and Westbrook, have also been impacted. Many parents and students are struggling to navigate the closed-off areas. “We just want to know what’s happening and when it will be resolved,” said a concerned parent.

Kent Police have urged the public to avoid the area if possible and to follow any directions given by law enforcement officers on the scene. The investigation is ongoing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.