Three boys aged 13, 14 and 15 charged with rape

Police have charged three schoolboys with rape.

The boys, aged 13, 14, and 15, are each charged with three counts of rape of a girl aged under 16 in Rochdale, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said.

The three were arrested following an incident in Newbold on 10 February last year.

They will appear at Manchester Youth Court on Monday, 24 March.

GMP Det Supt Phil Key said: "This investigation has seen extensive and thorough work reviewing all available evidence in this case.

"We are now in a position to charge three boys following the incident last year.

"We continue to provide support to the victim and her wellbeing has been a priority for us over the last 12 months.

"I would remind the public not to speculate on names of those they believe to be involved, as those under 18 have a legal right to anonymity and in speculating over names, this poses a risk to justice, and criminal proceedings can and may be brought against those naming."

A fourth boy arrested in connection with the incident has been released without charge.

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