Police Constable Ravi Canhye, 46, who was charged with offences on Tuesday 24 January, will appear at Poole Magistrates’ Court on Friday 3 February charged with eight sexual offences, including two charges of rape.

The charges relate to offences against two women committed while Ravi Canhye was off duty during early 2022.

Ravi Canhye was immediately suspended at the time the allegations were made and has remained suspended throughout the investigation.

The matter was subject of a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct who has decided it should be subject to a local investigation by Dorset Police.

A police spokesman said: “We understand that charges of this nature will quite rightfully cause concern within our communities.

“However, due to the ongoing legal proceedings, we are prevented from commenting on this matter any further at this time.”

If anyone has any specific concerns about this case or any sexual offence crimes, please contact Dorset Police where information can be reported and dealt with in the strictest confidence.