Community leaders spoke out about their shock and anger after a woman was raped in a town centre block of flats.

The victim was attacked on Friday morning in Basildon town centre, with commuters spotting swarms of police near the train station at roughly 6am.

Around four police vehicles were seen parked in Station Way and Cherrydown East.

A man was arrested at the scene.

One commuter in her 20s said: “There was a massive scene outside the flats near the station.

Someone was dragged out and then threw up everywhere.”

Essex Police has now confirmed a rape investigation has been launched and man has been questioned in connection with the incident.

Echo:

Jeff Henry, Tory councillor for Laindon Park said: “This is just awful and we cannot have a situation where people do not feel safe here in Basildon “We have had incidents of indecent behaviour in our borough parks and we can not be allowing women’s rights to go about their business being taken away from them.

“There has been lots of talk nationally and in the borough about the issue of women’s safety. This incident will only add and contribute to the fear and concern around these issues.

“I do not think Basildon is any less safe than other areas and towns.”

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The councillor, who is also part of the communities and wellbeing committee at Basildon Council, sent his best wishes to the victim and insisted women should feel safe in the town.

He added: “It may help the victim if the police can make the prosecution as quick as possible.”

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “We are investigating following a woman reported being raped in Basildon on Friday October 15.

“A man was been arrested on suspicion of rape and is currently on bail until 8 November. Our enquiries are ongoing.”