Police are increasing patrols following two reports of indecent exposure in the Hessle Foreshore area.
A 52-year-old man who was arrested in connection with the incidents earlier this week has since been released without charge. Officers are continuing their investigations and are “carrying out extensive lines of enquiries”.
It is alleged that a man “indecently exposed himself and engaged in an inappropriate act” while shouting towards two women who were walking along the foreshore path between the Country Park Inn and North Ferriby at around 12.20pm on Monday (May 12).
A second report was received around 30 minutes later when a man is said to have “got off his bicycle and indecently exposed himself to a 17-year-old girl”. This also happened in the foreshore area.
Humberside Police neighbourhood policing inspector Matt Wilson said: “I understand these reports will be of extreme concern to the local community and I want to offer my reassurance that we are treating both incidents incredibly seriously and with the utmost priority.
“Over the course of the last five days, I’ve had a dedicated team of officers making various lines of enquiries to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incidents and whether the reports are connected.
“My team have been trawling and reviewing CCTV footage in and around the area and as part of these enquiries, on Wednesday, 14 May, we arrested a 52-year-old man in connection with the reports. I can now confirm he has since been released without charge and our investigations are continuing.
“I understand naturally people will feel concerned by this news; however, I want to offer my reassurance that the safety of our residents and those visiting the foreshore is our priority, and dedicated resources have been deployed as we continue our efforts to try and identify the person alleged to be involved.
“Members of the public can expect to see an increased police presence in the area over the weekend as officers from our Neighbourhood Policing team are stepping up patrols, alongside plain clothed officers and the Dog Unit to provide reassurance.
“I would encourage anybody who has any concerns to come and speak to the team or if anybody has any new information you can call us on our non-emergency number 101 quoting log 183 of 12 May.”
Alternatively, reports can be made anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.