Police have made two arrests as part of an investigation into a reported assault.

The teenage male, who is under the age of 16, was assaulted in the area of Coombs Wood, Armathwaite on Sunday October 9.

Senior investigating officer, Detective Chief Inspector John Graham-Cumming said; “This is a complex investigation that is being managed by a specialist team of dedicated detectives.

“The investigation has been fast paced and a vast number of lines of enquiry have been conducted, including the recent arrests.

“We appreciate the impact the investigation has had on the victim, their family and the local community.

“We would like to thank them for their ongoing support as our enquiries continue.

“The community will have noticed an increased policing presence in the area due to the progression of the investigation and providing reassurance.

“Our detectives and officers are progressing this investigation. There is no perceived threat to the wider public.

“We thank everyone who has contacted us to-date with information to support our enquiries.

“We continuing to appeal for witnesses and information as our enquiries continue to understand the full circumstances of the incident.”

The two men aged 31 and 46, both from Carlisle, have been arrested on suspicion of Rape, False Imprisonment and Kidnap.

The men have been released on police bail with multiple bail conditions.

The teenager is being supported by specialist officers.

An appeal for information continues. Officers would like to speak to anyone who was in Coombs Wood between 11am and 3.30pm on the Sunday.

Detectives would especially like to identify a dark coloured Ford Fiesta, made in the mid 2000s.

Anyone who may have witnessed the vehicle on Sunday October 9 in the area of Coombs Wood, Armathwaite, Ainstable or Kirkoswold areas is asked to get in touch.

It is believed there were two occupants of the vehicle, a black male and a white male, both believed to be aged 20 – 30 years of age.

Officers would also like to hear from anyone who was driving in the area at the time who has dashcam footage available.

To support the investigation a Major Incident Public Portal has been set up. This dedicated portal allows the public to report information easily to one location.

Anyone with information is asked to report it via: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/9901020317N51-PO1