Police tape was spotted in Dagenham this morning after a "serious sexual assault" in Romford.

A crime scene was put in place in front of three shops along Dagenham Heathway at around 3.40am this morning (August 16) after a woman reported being assaulted in another borough "not connected to the Heathway or Barking and Dagenham".

The Met Police later confirmed that the "serious" sexual assault took place in Exchange Street, Romford, between 1am and 2am.

This incident was then reported to police officers on patrol in Dagenham, and - due to her reporting the incident on the Heathway - a crime scene was put in place there to preserve any evidence that could help with the investigation.

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A crime scene was also put in place in Exchange Street, Romford, and police tape remains in place this afternoon.

A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police said: "A crime scene has been put in place in Exchange Street, RM1, after officers received reports of a serious sexual assault which is alleged to have taken place in this area at around 1am to 2am on Friday, August 16, 2024.

"Investigations are ongoing.

"Anyone who has any information is encouraged to call police on 101 quoting CAD: 868/16AUG24."