THREE boys have been arrested on suspicion of a series of sexual assaults in Oxford.

Thames Valley Police said it had arrested a 16-year-old boy in relation to seven incidents, a 14-year-old-boy in relation to two incidents and a 14-year-old boy in relation to one incident of sexual assault.

The force said the victims, who are all women in their 20s and 30s, were touched inappropriately over their clothing.

Officers said the 16-year-old, who has been released on bail until April 25, was arrested in connection with seven incidents occurring at Rhymers Lane on March 18 at 6.56pm, Crowell Road on March 20 at 7pm, Campbell Road on March 20 at 8pm, Hockmore Street on March 21 at 5pm, Hockmore Street on March 24 at 9.05am, Cowley Road on March 24 at 1.40pm and Church Cowley Road on March 24 at 7pm.

One of the 14-year-olds, who remains in custody, has been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault on March 21 at 4pm in Hockmore Street.

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The other 14-year-old, who also remains in custody, has been arrested in relation to incidents on Rymers Lane on March 18 and Hockmore Street on March 21 at 4pm.

Detective Constable Laura Alexander said: “We take all incidents of this nature very seriously.

“We would encourage anyone who has experienced anything similar to come forward and contact police.”