A serving officer with Dorset Police has been charged with eight sexual offences, including two charges of rape.

Constable Ravi Canhye, 46, will appear at Poole Magistrates’ Court on Friday following the charges.

The rape charges relate to two women and allegedly took place while the officer was off duty in early 2022, Dorset Police said.

The force added that Canhye was suspended at the time the allegations were made.

A Dorset Police spokesman said on Monday: “A serving Dorset Police officer is to appear in court charged with rape.

“Police Constable Ravi Canhye, aged 46, was charged with offences on Tuesday 24 January 2023 and will appear at Poole Magistrates’ Court on Friday 3 February 2023 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.

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

The spokesman added: “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.

“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.”

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