Crimewatch appeal over rape charge soldier

Che Awembeng Collins did not turn up at court in October

Detectives searching for a soldier who failed to appear at court after being charged with rape are hoping an appeal on Crimewatch will help to trace him.

Gunner Che Awembeng Collins, 32, of 12 Regiment Royal Artillery, was charged following an alleged incident on the Isle of Man on 29 August.

He was due to attend court in October but did not turn up, police said.

The Army confirmed the gunner, who was based at Baker Barracks in Thorney Island, West Sussex, was missing.

Neither he nor his alleged victim are from the island, police said.

Insp Mark Britton added: "This matter as such has no local connections other than the alleged offence being committed here on 29 August 2010."

The case will feature in the Wanted section of the Crimewatch programme.

Crimewatch will be shown on BBC One at 2100 GMT.